Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Denard Robinson injury a blessing in disguise

Denard Robinson finished his career as the quarterback with the most rushing yards in the history of college football. Ironically enough, he didn't even finish his career as Michigan's starting signal caller.

Robinson injured his throwing elbow on October 27 and hasn't thrown a meaningful pass since. I'm sure it was hard for Robinson to watch back up Devin Gardner take over and play so well down the stretch....he's obviously the future and Michigan should be excited. As for Denard, his phenomenal speed and natural running instincts kept him on the field the last three games...mostly at tail back. What had to be a disappointment for Robinson could actually be a blessing in disguise.

Denard "Shoelace" Robinson was no doubt a great college quarterback, but I have serious doubts about his chances playing the position in the NFL. He has two major strikes, small and inaccurate. He would be much better suited as a utility player, a Darren Sproles type player if you will.

With all of the rule changes, the NFL has become a wide open pass happy league.  Denard and his 4.2 speed could take advantage of that. Forced into action as that type of player the past few games, Robinson got a chance to show that he can be used (drafted) to fill a variety of roles. Robinson ran for 100 yards against a tough South Carolina defense in the Outback Bowl. He was equally explosive as the primary ball carrier against Ohio State the prior game.

The way that Denard handled his "demotion" was nothing short of classy. He's a character guy and a great athlete. I know that Robinson would like to prove to the world that he could do it as a quarterback on the pro level. That would not have ended well. Fate may have intervened in his favor.    follow @plcolter

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