Tennessee had signed multiple quarterbacks in 1982. After a few practices, however, most realized they would not win the starting job over Robinson. Several, including Clinkscales and Davis, found new positions, while others left the team. During his freshman year, Robinson was a backup to star quarterback Alan Cockrell, and played very little. He led Tennessee's junior varsity team to a 3–1 record, however, completing 15 of 29 passes for 412 yards and seven touchdowns, and rushing for 109 yards. Robinson remained a backup to Cockrell during the 1983 season. He received his only significant playing time in Tennessee's 37–3 win over Georgia Tech, completing 6 of 12 passes for 123 yards and a 35-yard touchdown.