Watch: Remembering the creation of a Michigan football legend

Originally posted on Blue By Ninety | By Chris Mangum | Last updated 7/24/23

In 2009, a Michigan football legend was born in Ann Arbor, MI, at the iconic “Big House,” the home of the Wolverines’ program. Now, nearly 15 years after the fact, let’s relive the birth of one of the most electric Michigan quarterbacks to ever wear the Maize and Blue — Denard Robinson.

Denard Robinson — a Michigan football legend

Denard Robinson came to Michigan as a four-star quarterback out of Florida. He ranked among the nation’s top 15 quarterbacks and was a great addition for former head coach Rich Rodriguez, who had led the Wolverines to a 3-9 finish in his first year as head coach. That said, during one of the darkest times in Michigan football history, Denard Robinson was a beacon of hope for Wolverines fans and immediately caught the attention of the nation.

During his debut performance for Michigan football against Western Michigan in 2009, Denard Robinson dazzled just one play into his college career. After fumbling the snap, Robinson picked the ball up and did what he is best known for — he shifted around a few defenders and then showcased his lightning-fast speed.

Denard Robinson was special pic.twitter.com/eqltgxfyqD

— Unnecessary Roughness (@UnnecRoughness) July 23, 2023

Robinson, nicknamed “Shoelace” for his refusal to tie his cleats, went on to win the starting job. While Michigan football finished 5-7 in 2009 and 7-6 in 2010, the Wolverines finally got back on track during year one of the Brady Hoke era. During the most famous year of the Denard Robinson era (2011), he led the Wolverines to an 11-2 finish with a win over Ohio State and a New Year’s Six victory — Michigan’s Sugar Bowl win remains the program’s most recent major bowl victory.

While he did not have an illustrious NFL career, Denard Robinson remains a Michigan football legend. He is now on Jim Harbaugh’s coaching staff and has proven to be a great addition for the Wolverines on the recruiting trail and beyond.

This article first appeared on Blue By Ninety and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: