Offseason Speculation: What is Gardner's Ceiling?

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February 26th, 2013 at 12:01 AM
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Michael Scarn
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Offseason Speculation: What is Gardner's Ceiling?

Despite the fact that it was a relatively small sample of QB play this season, Gardner looked pretty damn good at times, including an impressive performance against the mighty South Carolina defense.   What do you think his ceiling is?  Let's say the levels are:

-All B1G QB

-All American QB

-Heisman Finalist

-Heisman Winner

-Top 15 pick

-Top 5 pick

-Number 1 overall pick

Obviously, a wide range of possibilities, but this is assuming again, an optimistic ceiling, not a prediction of what he'll necessarily turn out to be.  Personally, I think his ceiling is somewhere around All-American/Heisman Finalist, a lot will also depend on his redshirt and the success of team the next couple years.

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February 26th, 2013 at 12:04 AM | Hmmm (Score:3 Insightful)
SomeDude
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Joined: 02/10/2013
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I speculate he'll play quarterback. Oh and he'll be really really good.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:05 AM | Ceiling: All Big Ten (Score:5 Normal)
chally
Joined: 11/25/2008
MGoPoints: 294

Ceiling: All Big Ten

February 26th, 2013 at 12:57 PM | Ceiling? (Score:3 Normal)
mikegoblue32
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Joined: 01/19/2011
MGoPoints: 210

 

Ceiling.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:07 AM | I think he has a high ceiling (Score:2)
HAIL-YEA
Joined: 07/15/2009
MGoPoints: 1010

but with the offense were most like ging to run in 13' .I dont expect huge numbers from him..so I will say all B1G and top 15 pick

How can you kill that which has no life

February 26th, 2013 at 12:22 AM | Were you watching the last (Score:2 Normal)
eamus_caeruli
Joined: 11/29/2010
MGoPoints: 547

Were you watching the last five games? People are making too much out of this supposed power run game. I would bet bottom dollar the coaches want 200/200 game splits. That may seem high, but frankly it's not, especially against most of the BIG.

"Everybody thinks of changing humanity, but nobody thinks of changing himself."                  - Leo Tolstoy

February 26th, 2013 at 12:41 AM | If we are going for that why (Score:1)
samdrussBLUE
Joined: 01/21/2012
MGoPoints: 657

If we are going for that why not just 300/200? This makes us elite offensively and we want moar yards. If denard can do it by himself on multiple expectations I say we make it an offensive goal. Yes please

February 26th, 2013 at 12:59 AM | Yes and I thought (Score:5 Normal)
HAIL-YEA
Joined: 07/15/2009
MGoPoints: 1010

he played amazingly well, especially considering he was not working at qb for most of the year. But 200 yards passing a game is not going to get him in the heisman race. Unless DG can somehow keep scoring touchdowns at the sick pace he was during that 5 game stretch, he wont have the #'s Make no mistake, I am super excited about his potential and I always argued with people who claimed Bellomy had passed him. He has all of the physical tools to be great and I know he won the classroom award at the elite 11 camps..all that adds up to great potential. All that being said, I look at our schedule and only see 2 maybe 3 games( ND,OSU, maybe Neb or NW) where there will be a need for a strong passing attack.  Other than that I expect the coaches to pound the run.

How can you kill that which has no life

February 26th, 2013 at 1:00 AM | No red shirt? (Score:2)
BlueUPer
Joined: 10/03/2010
MGoPoints: 1320

So you're saying he leaves early?

February 26th, 2013 at 12:09 AM | I don't know, but I'm pretty (Score:1)
exmtroj
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I don't know, but I'm pretty sure I'll spend the next 6 months worrying like hell about it unless he has a spring game like Denard had in 2010.

 

 

"All I've had today is, like, six gummy bears and some scotch"

February 26th, 2013 at 12:09 AM | ceiling? (Score:5 Normal)
wigeon
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Heisman.  

Realistically?  Qb of a BCS-bound 10-2 or 11-1 team, with a crapton of upside for 2014. 

 

 

 

Biz hundert azoi ve tsvantsik

February 26th, 2013 at 12:11 AM | All-Big Ten. More than that (Score:1 Normal)
rob6reid
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All-Big Ten. More than that and you might want to adjust your homer glasses.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:25 AM | The question is about his (Score:5 Normal)
turd ferguson
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The question is about his ceiling, not his most likely outcome.  His ceiling with respect to accolades is extremely high.  If we can put together a stellar season (say two or fewer losses) and he's a big part of it, he'll probably be part of the Heisman discussion.  I'm not saying that's likely, but it's certainly possible.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:32 PM | Kinda suprised I didnt get (Score:2)
rob6reid
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MGoPoints: -75866

Kinda suprised I didnt get hit with the flamebait. Usually I'm cautiously optimistic, but I feel like a heisman season is very unlikely this year. We are still waiting for Hoke's recruits to kick in, so maybe next year if DG gets the redshirt. It'll seem more likely then.

February 26th, 2013 at 2:18 PM | What's most likely to happen (Score:1)
Maize_Nation
Joined: 07/29/2012
MGoPoints: 197

What's most likely to happen isn't the same as what could happen if everything goes right.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:11 AM | While he showed flashes of (Score:2 Normal)
SoFlaWolverine
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While he showed flashes of brilliance, I was honestly not all that impressed with Devin in his two games against real defenses. With that said, I do think he has all B1G potential.

Denard is my homeboy.

University of Michigan Class of 2014

February 26th, 2013 at 12:18 AM | I feel sorry for your (Score:-1 Overrated)
February 26th, 2013 at 12:35 AM | I thought he did decent (Score:5 Normal)
UMxWolverines
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I thought he did decent against South Carolina. I feel like the coaches didn't put the entire team in the right positions to win against ohio though. 

"Ohio is like a giant turd that Michigan just can't pinch off"

February 26th, 2013 at 4:22 AM | Exactly. I feel like his (Score:-1 Overrated)
February 26th, 2013 at 9:01 PM | Borges (Score:1)
Hokemaniac24
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shouldn't really have to mold Devin into something like what Denard had to go through offensively... What we saw at the end of the year is likely what we will see next season.

2013 will be the year.

February 26th, 2013 at 11:05 PM | Well, yeah. That was my (Score:1)
maineandblue
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Well, yeah. That was my point. The OSU game happened at the end of the year, and it seemed like Borges' gameplan may have been the biggest factor that led to offensive ineffectiveness and a loss. 

February 26th, 2013 at 12:12 AM | I think his ceiling is (Score:5 Normal)
Newbs
Joined: 10/15/2012
MGoPoints: 181

I think his ceiling is extremely high. If he puts the work in this offseason and the O-Line wide receivers gel early I think he could do anything on that list. If he gets the redshirt I highly doubt he leaves regardless of what he does this year. Anyone know the status of his redshirt yet or when we will find out?

WOLVERINE NATION!

Twitter: @MckenzieNewby

 

February 26th, 2013 at 12:13 AM | so, the very worst he can be (Score:-1 Flamebait)
February 26th, 2013 at 12:23 AM | Outstanding comprehension of (Score:5 Normal)
turd ferguson
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Outstanding comprehension of the word "ceiling" here.

Sorry, but if anyone deserves an obnoxious, snarky response like this, it's you.

February 26th, 2013 at 1:12 AM | why can't his ceiling be (Score:-1 Trolling)
February 26th, 2013 at 1:22 AM | Because he has already played above that level (Score:5 Normal)
HAIL-YEA
Joined: 07/15/2009
MGoPoints: 1010

It makes no sense to say his ceiling is far below the level he actually played at last year. it's a possibility that he plays that way, but it is not his ceiling.

How can you kill that which has no life

February 26th, 2013 at 1:46 AM | David, I hate to be the one (Score:5 Normal)
MGoBallsack
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David, I hate to be the one to break this to you... but you are a dick. And somewhat of an idiot if you think Gardner didn't show flashes of being an All Big-Ten talent last year.

Big and Firm

February 26th, 2013 at 2:00 AM | A ballsack just called you a (Score:5 Normal)
Markovits is Great
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Joined: 02/28/2012
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A ballsack just called you a dick.

Except for the other thing. That hurts the most. But the lack of respect hurts the second most.

February 26th, 2013 at 4:32 AM | And a turd implied that he's (Score:5 Normal)
turd ferguson
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And a turd implied that he's an ass.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:20 AM | I think he can be all Big Ten (Score:2)
Gobgoblue
Joined: 07/07/2012
MGoPoints: 789

But if the receivers can step up or a top talent can emerge (Darboh?) then maybe All-American.  I wouldn't say he can get into the top 15 in the draft, but I'd be surprised if after coming back for his redshirt senior season and devloping nicely, he doesn't go by the end of round 2.  

I love Greg Mattison

February 26th, 2013 at 12:21 AM | Hope he can learn something from Trey Burke (Score:5 Normal)
brooktrail
Joined: 05/31/2011
MGoPoints: 442

All assists and no turnovers.

Cut down the interceptions and fumbles and he is going to win the Heisman.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:35 AM | Upvoted (Score:2)
Gobgoblue
Joined: 07/07/2012
MGoPoints: 789

because it gave me a warm and fuzzy.  Also, looking at the "hopefuls" it is not that out of the question.

IMHO, I don't think Manziel will win again.  In the SEC, you can bet your ass Saban is staying up until 4:30 in the morning watching film to break down this guy.  

I think this is a pretty decent list: http://www.foxsportssouth.com/12/10/12/Who-will-be-in-2013s-Heisman-Trophy-race/landing_sec.html?blockID=833277

Unfortunately, I think Braxton (vomits) and Aaron Murray are Devin's biggest threats. With a big up to Marqise Lee. 

What does everyone else think?

EDIT: also, Taylor Martinez is on that list so take it FWIW, because that made me LOL in a "no chance in hell" way.  

I love Greg Mattison

February 26th, 2013 at 12:22 AM | I'm willing to bet that (Score:2)
vbnautilus
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his ceiling is that textured spray on "popcorn ceiling" kind.  It's also sometimes known as "cottage cheese" ceiling.   I just hope it doesn't contain asbestos.  

February 26th, 2013 at 1:39 AM | The sky (Score:4 Normal)
Mat
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MGoPoints: 1506

is the only proper ceiling for a Gardner.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:25 AM | Devin has the tools to be the (Score:5 Normal)
WolverineFanatic6
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Joined: 10/29/2012
MGoPoints: 409

Devin has the tools to be the quarterback everyone thought he would be coming out of high school. I believe he will be better then he was last season.



Devin's exhibits great poise in the pocket amd has solid arm strength. He possesses the speed and elusiveness to pick up crucial yardage at important junctures in the game.



I think Devin needs to improve his coverage recognition, and his awareness in the pocket. Several times he tried to make something happen but got sacked when he should have thrown the ball away. His improvement in these areas will definitely come as he's given a full offseason, spring, and fall with first team reps and film study. I do think the continued transition to what Borges wants to run will present a slightly slower pace of improvement then if it were the same system as last year.



I believe if Michigan's offensive line is able to establish the run at even an above average level, Devin and the WR's will benefit greatly. I have a feeling Devin Funchess will double his Freshman numbers and emerge as one if the best TE's in the nation.



All that said I think if granted the Medical redshirt he will become a potential 1st team All American.

There is god, there is family, and then there is MICHIGAN FOOTBALL

February 26th, 2013 at 12:29 AM | His improvement in these (Score:4 Normal)
turd ferguson
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His improvement in these areas will definitely come as he's given a full offseason, spring, and fall with first team reps and film study.

Working with the first team is great, but how about the fact that he'll actually be practicing as a quarterback? 

I agree with your broader point.  I expect a major step forward.

February 26th, 2013 at 2:39 AM | I'm sorry I didn't specify (Score:2 Normal)
WolverineFanatic6
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I'm sorry I didn't specify but I was pretty sure everyone knew he wasn't playing WR anymore.

There is god, there is family, and then there is MICHIGAN FOOTBALL

February 26th, 2013 at 12:27 AM | I don't know that he out (Score:2 Normal)
willywill9
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I don't know that he out performs say Braxton Miller, but few QBs will next year.  I think DG will have a very strong season, and we see the best offensive season for Michigan to date (in the Hoke era.)

Touchdown Michigan!

February 26th, 2013 at 12:28 AM | I think this is the wrong question (Score:5 Normal)
TaiStreetsMyHero
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MGoPoints: 727

How is his ceiling not #1 draft pick? He's a former 5* recruit with NFL size and speed. He's shown glimpses of excellence and more than likely has 2 more years to develop.

Now, do I think he will reach that ceiling? No. But then isn't the better question, based on pure speculation, what do you think he will become?

I do it for my love of the Streets

February 26th, 2013 at 12:32 AM | I would say his ceiling is (Score:2 Normal)
redwhiteandmaize
Joined: 02/04/2012
MGoPoints: 1039

I would say his ceiling is most definitely stucco.

"Are you an official here?Because you've officially given me a boner."

February 26th, 2013 at 12:34 AM | If he can significantly (Score:1 Normal)
russale2012
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If he can significantly improve his accuracy, I think he can have potentially an All-American season, maybe a Heisman finalist. But that's a tall order. He showed flashes of brilliance against South Carolina, but he had a lot of trouble hitting wide open receivers at times.



All depends on if he puts in the time in the offseason. I think he will, and I remain cautiously optimistic. My ultimate guess is All Big Ten next Fall, and if he sticks around until 2014, that could be a really special year.

It's been a lot. Its been a roller coaster that for some reason seemed like it would never get good. But you know what? We kept fighting. It's like that old saying goes, "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions." -David Molk

February 26th, 2013 at 12:40 AM | Honestly i rather see less (Score:0)
February 26th, 2013 at 2:25 PM | I'd rather him be both quick (Score:1)
Maize_Nation
Joined: 07/29/2012
MGoPoints: 197

I'd rather him be both quick and accurate.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:57 AM | I agree (Score:1)
Gobgoblue
Joined: 07/07/2012
MGoPoints: 789

he has shown he has the arm strength (Rountree vs. Northwestern), but if he can consistently hit our WR on the money, while still utilizing his altheticism, he is going to be scary good.  As an aside, DG has GREAT instincts and decision making skills (the former is absolutely unbelievable).  

I love Greg Mattison

February 26th, 2013 at 12:35 AM | If he can add some zip on the (Score:2 Normal)
samdrussBLUE
Joined: 01/21/2012
MGoPoints: 657

If he can add some zip on the ball then he can climb towards that ceiling. He has shown he can run/scramble, he has decent awareness, has the size and we know he can throw the ball deep. I just need to see balls get there more quickly and with less arc, personally.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:36 AM | Devin can and will be a great (Score:1 Normal)
erald01
Joined: 01/17/2013
MGoPoints: 81

Devin can and will be a great QB, he has what Michigan needs; size, arm strength, quick release, can outrun defenders and accurate on his throws.. Does he need work? Yes he does, he needs to improve on some of the areas but i love the fact that he keeps calm even when they are behind... I hate to say this but he reminds of Terrell Pryor, big guy, not fast but with his long legs he can collect some yards and make ppl miss.. Devin needs to add some size also, but he will work hard and pull through, he loves Michigan and will do anything to win

February 26th, 2013 at 12:36 AM | He is inevitably going to be (Score:5 Normal)
Real Tackles Wear 77
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He is inevitably going to be underrated by the press going into next season, I don't expect him to be on any of the preseason all B1G teams but he will have a tremendous season next year and hopefully the year after.

LSA '11
February 26th, 2013 at 1:29 AM | I think that could take a big (Score:5 Normal)
Blue since birth
Joined: 12/24/2009
MGoPoints: 1077

I think that could take a big swing by mid-season with as backloaded as the schedule is. If they handle ND and he has a good game, I'd say to look for him in the top 3s/5s on a lot of Heisman lists. Whether he can bring it home in the second half of the season is a whole different animal.

February 26th, 2013 at 12:41 AM | I think he is 2nd team all (Score:2 Normal)
DKohn81
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I think he is 2nd team all big ten. Maybe first team depending on how are offensive line plays and the improvment of the running game.

February 26th, 2013 at 2:27 AM | "how OUR offensive line (Score:5 Normal)
marti221
Joined: 04/21/2010
MGoPoints: 518

"how OUR offensive line plays"

February 26th, 2013 at 2:55 PM | Damn can't believe I did (Score:1)
DKohn81
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Damn can't believe I did that.

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