Michigan Football: Denard Robinson and 3 Best Performers in 2011 So Far

Obviously, Denard has been Michigan's best performer so far this year, but the main reason they are 4-0 is because it has been a team effort.

Other than Denard, it's actually quite hard to find many guys that have really stood out.  Whether that's a good or bad thing can be debated.

Here's a look at the top four guys who have played the best so far this year.

4. Vincent Smith

A lot of people didn't think Vincent Smith would have much of an impact in Al Borges' offense, but so far he has.

Starting out as just a third-down back, he has worked his way as to being the starter for last week's San Diego State game.

Smith is currently leading the team in average yards per carry, as he is averaging 8.5 yards every time he carries the ball.

He only has one touchdown run, but that's OK seeing as how he's only started one game this year.

He is the shortest guy on the offense, but began to show that he can run between the tackles and get the tough yards last week.

However, it would be nice if he would show a little more speed and also the ability to better break tackles.

3. Jeremy Gallon

Surprisingly, Jeremy Gallon currently leads Michigan in receptions.  He has eight on the year, which is three more than any other receiver.

What's even more impressive though is that he is averaging just under 18 yards a catch.

Like Vincent Smith, a lot of people probably thought that Gallon wasn't going to have too much of an impact in the offense this year.

However, he has come up big at times, as everyone remembers what he did in the Notre Dame game.

He has also looked a lot more comfortable on punt returns, as he has done a good job handling them all year.

Last year, he was constantly having trouble fielding the ball, but that is no longer the case.

Only a sophomore, Gallon is looking like he could be a big part of this Michigan offense after all.

2. Jordan Kovacs

A lot of fans thought that Jordan Kovacs might not even start this year, possibly being replaced by Marvin Robinson.

However, Kovacs was named as one of the first starters in fall camp and has delivered.

Everybody remembers what he did against Western Michigan, as he was constantly making plays, including the huge sack that forced a fumble.

He has slowed down a bit in recent weeks but is obviously still a huge part of this defense.

If he has come this far in such a short time under Greg Mattison, imagine what he'll do next year as a senior.

1. Denard Robinson

This one is a no-brainer.  Everybody knew that Denard would be the key to this team, and so far he has been just that.

His running ability is just as good as it's ever been, but it's a little surprising how much his passing ability has regressed.

He has thrown six touchdown passes so far, but that's about the only positive stat when looking at his throwing numbers.

Denard's rushing statistics are what could possibly land him in New York for the Heisman ceremony.

He has carried the ball 71 times this year, and is averaging just under eight yards a carry.  He is already halfway to 1,000 yards, as he currently has 552.

He also has ran for five scores so far this year.

It will be interesting to see how he does once conference play starts.

He is the key to this Michigan team if they want to do well in the conference.