Over the next two weeks, WolverineNation will break down the 10 players who need to play to the peak of their abilities for Michigan to have its best possible season, going from 10 all the way to No. 1.

So, this is a name you knew you'd see, but probably not at No. 8 -- quarterback Denard Robinson. Yes, he's Michigan's most recognizable and most electrifying player. Do the Wolverines need Robinson to be very good this season if they want to win? Yes. But do they need him as badly as they need the top seven on our list? We don't think so. With Michigan's depth at quarterback, the Wolverines could handle a snap or two without Robinson, and still, they'd be competitive. There are other players who would exit the game and the Wolverines wouldn't be able to do much.

That being said, they do need Robinson to perform -- both with his arm and feet. Given the improvement of quarterbacks historically under offensive coordinator Al Borges' tutelage, it can be assumed Robinson's arm will look better this year than it did last. He said he worked on footwork and is no longer throwing off his back foot. He said he got in the weight room and film room. But, we won’t know anything until kickoff on Sept. 1.

But, like most positions, Robinson being able to perform to the peak of his abilities will also depend on other players doing the same. If they can hold up their end of the bargain and Robinson can hold up his, Michigan's offense could be quite the show.

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