Michigan QB Devin Gardner returns to Manning Passing Academy

Nov 30, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Devin Gardner (98) looks to pass during the third quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

University of Michigan quarterback, Devin Gardner has returned to Thibodaux, La., this weekend to work alongside some of the nation’s top collegiate quarterbacks at the Manning Passing Academy.

The Manning family, including Peyton, Eli, and their father Archie oversee the camp at Nicholls State University.

Gardner is coming off his first full season as Michigan’s starting quarterback, a season in which Gardner experienced ups and downs, but most imporortantly learned a great amount from his time on the field.

“How can’t you respect Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning? He learned a lot,” Hoke said. “I think it’s been good. … As long as he learned something, and there’s an affirmation on what he’s been taught (at U-M), that’s been huge.” – UofM coach Brady Hoke

Gardner has a new offensive coordinator at U of M and is eager to continue improving. His return to the Academy as a consoler will certainly help the cause. After attending last year, Gardner said he drew as much from the leadership as the technical aspects.

Live Feed

Chowder and Champions

Gardner produced 32 touchdowns and more than 3,000 all-purpose yards as a junior in 2013. He was named an All-Big Ten honorable mention after completing 208-of-345 passing for 2,960 yards and 21 touchdowns and rushing 165 times for 483 yards and 11 touchdowns.

"“It’s not even football-related, but Peyton and Eli are such different people and they lead in such different ways and they’re both successful,” Gardner said last summer. “That was refreshing for me, to see you don’t have to be a certain type of person to lead or be successful at the next level or below.”"

Players joining Gardner in Thibodaux, La include the likes of 2013 Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston of Florida State, along with Oregon’s Marcus Mariota, USC’s Cody Kessler and Baylor’s Bryce Petty.

The camp is now in its 19th year and counts numerous current NFL quarterbacks among its alumni, including Andrew Luck, Matthew Stafford and Sam Bradford.