Really. Pick sixes were great plays, no doubt, but right now, coverage is his best quality and he's still learning that. I, too, think he'll be alright, but it's going to take time and reps for him to be more consistent. As far as tackling and run support, aging size and strength will bring confidence that is needed to take on a solid back or a physical receiver and either bring them down or be able to hang on until help gets there. He's not there yet. If you recall, in the Michigan game, it was he and the back at the line of scrimmage on the flank and he absolutely got out of the back's way, without any contact, and let him run by and stood and watched. He's got a ways to go in the tackling department and is still growing his football set.
Gardner needs to talk less and perform better. Standing flat-footed allowed him to play rooster to Kelly's semi! Poor fundamentals. Coaching issue in my opinion. Agreed about the young LBs. Biggest thing with them is poor angles (fundamentals) and fatgue (offensive/coaching issue).