The biggest news of the day for Michigan — starting quarterback Denard Robinson is sitting because of a nerve injury, and Devin Gardner, who has played receiver this season, is starting.
In the first quarter, though, Gardner wasn’t able to move the Michigan offense at Minnesota.
Michigan gained nine yards on eight plays.
Minnesota has taken a 7-0 lead on a 10-yard pass from freshman Philip Nelson to open the second quarter.
Robinson missed the second half of last week’s loss to Nebraska after taking a hit late in the second quarter that aggravated a nerve injury in his right elbow, Robinson today is wearing a long white protective sleeve with padding over the elbow but was limited in pre-game warmpus.
Gardner, Robinson’s backup the last two seasons who moved to receiver before this season, has said all season he plans to compete for the starting job at quarterback next year.Gardner, however, had not taken many snaps at quarterback this season.
He was given plenty of reps this week in preparation for playing time at quarterback today.
Michigan coach Brady Hoke said during the pre-game radio show that Gardner’s experience at receiver has made him a better quarterback.
Michigan is 5-3, 3-1 Big Ten, while Minnesotais 5-3, 1-3. Both teams are one victory from bowl-eligibility.
Robinson’s injury was to the ulnar nerve, which travels from the elbow to the outside of the hand, mainly the ring and pinky fingers. Robinson complained of numbness and an inability to grip the ball, explaining why he couldn’t return to theNebraska game. It was the second time in three games Robinson has suffered the injury, but he was able to return against Illinois
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