It appears as though Ohio State has the offensive talent to get by without him, but having Braxton Miller back under center is something head coach Urban Meyer is looking forward to. Meyer feels Miller should be able to play this weekend when Ohio State hosts Florida A&M, even if it is in a limited role.
The Heisman Trophy candidate at the start of the season has understandably taken a back seat as far as that conversation is concerned, but he is working to return to the field. Eleven Warriors reports Miller practiced Wednesday but he took more mental snaps than physical snaps according to offensive lineman Jack Mewhort. Miller is not back to full speed but the Buckeyes can afford to be a little more cautious with his progress this week. With or without Miller on the field, Ohio State should easily put away visiting Florida A&M on Saturday. If Miller does play, do not expect to see too much out of him, but that will be because he will not have to do much and should get a relatively early rest.
Miller has been out of game action since early in the second game of the season for the Buckeyes. A sprained MCL has meant Kenny Guiton has had to carry the offense in his absence. Fortunately for Ohio State, Guiton has been up to the task. Some have gone so far as to suggest Ohio State’s offense runs better with Guiton at quarterback, and Meyer has suggested he would like to get both of his quarterbacks on the field. Guiton has completed 67.2 of his pass attempts for 428 yards and six touchdowns over the past two weeks while filling in for Miller.
Regardless of how well Guiton has played, it is not likely Miller is moved down on the depth chart. This is still Miller’s team and if the Buckeyes are going to make a serious run at a BCS Championship then it will be based largely on the effectiveness of Miller. But if Miller is unavailable, Ohio State should feel comfortable with Guiton as an adept Plan B.