Penn State Football: Updated top five all-time quarterbacks

5. Michael Robinson

Michael Robinson may be the greatest athlete to ever play the quarterback position for Penn State football. He struggled to get on the field with the school’s career passing yardage leader Zack Mills playing in the top quarterback spot until 2004. Penn State opted to use Robinson as a gadget player during Mills’ career. He played every position including quarterback, wide receiver, tight end and running back.

After patiently waiting for his time, he dazzled during the 2005 campaign using his legs and arm to   beat defenses. Robinson led the Nittany Lions to an 11-1 season and a dramatic three-overtime win against Florida State in the Orange Bowl 26-23.

Robinson was the perfect 21st-century quarterback to operate Penn State’s scheme. He shredded defenses in a year where dual threat’s had a coming out party a la Vince Young. He rushed for 806 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Although passing was his secondary skill, Robinson played capably. He threw for 2,350 yards and 17 touchdowns and kept the turnovers at a reasonable level with just 10 interceptions. It may not have been pretty at all times, but he played within himself and put up a fantastic one year under center.

His one season means more than Clark’s two years, because he recorded the first double-digit win season and bowl win in six years. It was also the highest poll finish (No. 3) since the undefeated 1994 campaign.

Robinson would’ve received more recognition for his season and Orange Bowl effort if the great game in college football history didn’t occur in the same season. Still, it was a year to remember for the Penn State faithful during a tough stretch.