Confidence, composure, work keep Devin Gardner in the hunt for Michigan's starting quarterbacking job

Gardner has been in this position before. As a freshman at Inkster High School, Gardner eyed the starting job, which, at the time, a sophomore had the inside track on. Gardner made a strong enough first impression to capture the spot, which he held onto for the remainder of his prep career, which he capped his senior year by passing for 1,930 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also rushed for 991 yards and scored 12 touchdowns while leading Inkster to the Division 2 final.

The challenge Gardner faces now is more daunting. Sophomores Forcier and Robinson both have a year's experience. In the short time Gardner has been in Michigan's program, though, he has made strides, showing effectiveness with both his arm and his feet.

"He's got very good composure for a freshman,” Michigan quarterbacks coach Rod Smith said. "He has that knack to make plays, and he knows where to go with the football. He makes mistakes, but he's a coachable kid. We'll get on him, but you know he's going to take it and correct it."

Gardner studies his competition. He watches Robinson run and is amazed as his natural speed. He sees the way Forcier confidently carries himself and admires his decision-making ability. But Gardner understands part of his job is to try and separate himself.

Gardner believes when things break down around him, he can make something happen. He believes he can manage both the running and passing aspects of his position and understands his size allows him to effectively absorb hits.

"I feel like I'm doing way better (than early on), but I know I need to do even better," Gardner said Sunday. "There is still a lot I need to do."

By his own assessment, Gardner demonstrates the ability to stay in the pocket longer than his two competitive counterparts. In high school, he knew his feet could get him out of trouble - even if that meant running over oncoming tacklers. But now, facing bigger and stronger competition, he admits he won't be as eager to take off.

"If I just start running now, it may not end well for me," he said.

Gardner definitely has caught the attention of Rodriguez and Smith.

"He's a kid that's going to do what it takes to put himself in the best position to give himself a chance to play," Smith said. "There are flashes where you say, 'Wow - this kid is going to be special.' But then there's times you say, 'Uh, this kid's a freshman.' But he's got it in him."

That's where the fun part comes in for Gardner. Although Rodriguez hasn't ruled out the possibility that he could be Michigan's starter, Gardner is realistic enough to know he's not the favorite. For Gardner, what's important is that he is still in the running. Gardner is open to redshirting his first season, but he would rather play.

"I feel like I've got a shot," Gardner said. "Obviously, the coaches all see that we're all doing well. Some people may think it's all for show, but we're all doing well."

Rodriguez hasn't set a timetable for when he'll name a starting quarterback. Gardner doesn't mind waiting.

"We probably won't find out until the night before the game," Gardner said. "Or maybe even the day of the game. But I love to compete - that's probably one of the best things about me. I knew it was going to be rough and that I was going to compete with two great guys, and I think that's what drew me in the most."

Jeff Arnold covers sports for AnnArbor.com and can be reached at (734) 623-2554 or by email at jeffarnold@annarbor.com. Follow him on Twitter @jeffreyparnold.