Robinson wasn't replacing an injured starter. Oklahoma State coaches made the switch, hoping Robinson's dual threat skills would take the offense to a new level.
It was a delicate situation for Robinson.
One reason star wide receiver Adarius Bowman declined interview requests after the switch was he was close to Bobby Reid, the quarterback Robinson was replacing.
Since Reid had posted solid stats the previous season, and was well respected by teammates, Robinson was left to figure out how to handle his long awaited opportunity.
It was a rocky start. Robinson threw two interceptions in his debut against Troy, but played well the following week. He ran for 116 yards, threw for 211 yards and accounted for four touchdowns in a shootout win over Texas Tech.
As the season progressed, it was obvious Robinson would be the quarterback, not only of the present, but the future.
"Towards the end of last year I felt more comfortable in a leadership role and became more vocal,” Robinson said. "I felt it became my team. I think that (leadership role) will continue to grow this season.”
Starting the final 11 games, Robinson established the single season school record for total offense, throwing for 2,824 yards and rushing for 847 yards.
"You know what kind of kid Zac is,” Gundy said. "He'll develop as a leader just by his actions. The team looks as Zac as the leader now.”
Leaders can emerge from any position. Quarterbacks have to be leaders. Robinson, though, said vocal leadership can be overrated.
"Most of it is body language and leading by example,” Robinson said. "If guys see you hanging your head they'll probably start hanging their head. I just always try to stay positive.”
Because there are few seniors on the roster, Robinson and other underclassmen will be team leaders.
Gundy used tailback Kendall Hunter as an example how production, not words, resonate through a locker room.
"Even though Spud (Hunter) hasn't played a lot he's had success in big games,” Gundy said. "Those kind of guys are looked at differently. Spud will never say a word. I've never heard him talk. He's a guy who leads by example, just like Zac.”
