Signing Day Capsule: Devin Gardner

Devin Gardner is the fourth ranked quarterback in the nation, and also the fourth commitment in the Michigan Wolverines 2010 recruiting class. Get up to date on Gardner’s recruitment and find out about how this dual threat QB looks to make an immediate impact.

Devin Gardner
Quarterback 6-4/201/4.57
Inkster HS (Inkster, MI)
NR:***** - Position Rank: 4

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His Recruiting Story
When you say “dual-threat” the image of Devin Gardner should come to mind. He has a strong arm and can hurt you with his feet. Add to it a good head on his shoulders, and it’s easy to see why this prospect had offers spanning the nation. Rarely do you find a freshman in high school ready to command a team, but that is exactly what Devin did. Gardner’s freshman year was highlighted by 800 yards and 7 touchdown passes. After two more dominant seasons he saw offers from the likes of LSU, Notre Dame, West Virginia, and other piling in. He also netted an invite to the Elite 11 QB Camp (Where he won the “Best Feet” award) and the Under Armour game.

In his final season with Inkster, the quarterback was slow out of the blocks, but was able to power his team to the state championship game in the end. The run to the title game was highlighted with him completing 90 of 161 passing attempts (55.9%) for 1,603 yards and 19 touchdowns, and rushing for 16 scores.

His Commitment Comments
“It is really family atmosphere up there”, and as for the Wolverine offense he states “It is the same thing in our offense (at Inkster). I’m doing what I’m doing right now and I know I can see myself doing it all the time (at Michigan), I feel this is the best place I can compete and can compete early.”

GoBlueWolverine Commentary
There have been numerous questions and criticism over Devin’s mechanics as a passer, however, throughout his season, camps and all-star games he has answered them all. He is a big QB at over 6-foot-4, but can move. His accuracy has improved, and he has the arm strength needed to throw the deep ball when necessary. His overall package is made for the spread, and, as he looks to enroll early, he will be ready to compete early at Michigan. He may be the most athletic quarterback to ever have committed to UM, but also has the ability to use that ability to hit a throw on the run. Some quarterbacks panic when they have to take off, but it's effortless for him. He does not get rattled because he knows he can beat you through the air or on the ground.