Gardner needs to run to open up pass?

First, let me say that I really appreciate Devin Gardner and all that he does for Michigan football and the community.  He seems like a great, hard-working guy.  On the field he gives his all and has almost single-handidly carried Michigan in big games (ND 2013, OSU 2013, etc)

This year his on-the-field performance has been bad.  It is even more alarming when you see that he is a fifth-year senior with lots of starting experience.  In fact, I think he is having the single worst season for any returning starter senior QB in Michigan history.

So, what gives?

I notice he isn't running the ball nearly as much as last year.  There seem to be almost no designed runs and he is carrying the ball HALF as much as last year.  In his previous years he ran nearly as much as he threw (around 75% or higher).  Now it is half as much as he throws and bothe sets of numbers are down.

It could be injury, design or both casuing the change, but could this be the main reason for his PASSING struggles? Does he need to keep defenses honest with his feet (ala Denard)?

Does he need the threat of his legs to open up the passing game?  You would think that focusing on passing more would make him better.  It hasn't. 

The offensive line pass blocking and run game seem to have improved a bit from last year.  A similar move up by Gardner would have resulted in a "mediocre" offense and a more satisfying season. 

BUT, his passing performance seems to have gotten much worse the less he is asked to carry the ball.