In terms of first starts go, Buckeyes freshman quarterback Braxton Miller might want to a do-over in terms of passing. Miller, the third true freshman to start at quarterback in Ohio State’s history and the first since Terrelle Pryor in 2008, would toss two touchdown passes in a 37-17 win over the Colorado Buffaloes.
The decision to switch to Miller came after former starter fifth-year senior Joe Bauserman failed to move the Buckeyes offense in a 24-6 loss to the Miami Hurricanes last week. Bauserman would have one of the worst days for a starting Buckeyes quarterback in history as he would complete 2-of-14 passes for an embarrassing 13 yards.
With Bauserman’s inept and pathetic display of football futitlity down in Miami, there was no question that the Buckeyes needed a jump-start in their offense.
And in his first career start, Miller showed flashes of why he was so heavily recruited by the Buckeyes.
The 6’3 210-pound Miller would complete only 5-of 13 passes for 87 yards, he would also rush 17 times for 83 yards. Miller’s combination of timely passing and ability to rush will give Ohio State a more dynamic look on offense. For a true freshman playing in his first game, Miller looked impressive—albeit a bit tentative—under center.
With starting wide receiver Devier Posey and running back Daniel Herron set to return for the Oct 8 game at Nebraska in Lincoln, Miller’s inevitable growing pains under center will be eased and the Buckeyes will finally be able to move forward into the future with Miller.
Ohio State will also have the chance to show that it’s decision to go in a new direction with Miller was indeed a wise one.
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