NFL Draft Prospects Who Must Step Up In Week 1
Nov 30, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Braxton Miller (5) runs the ball against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Braxton Miller (WR – Ohio State) vs. Virginia Tech
After initially being expected to compete with J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones for the starting QB role, Miller left the race and switched positions to H-back. Now, with depth lacking at the position, Miller needs to make an impact in the Buckeyes’ season opener against Virginia Tech; the only team to defeat Ohio State last season.
Heading into the season, Ohio State was already having to replace Devin Smith and Evan Spencer, who left for the NFL. In addition, receiver Noah Brown sustained an injury and is out for the season while Corey Smith and H-backs Jalin Marshall and Dontre Wilson were all suspended for the opener. All of a sudden Braxton Miller is listed atop the depth chart at both H-back and punt returner.
With WR Michael Thomas expected to be covered by Virginia Tech lockdown CB Kendall Fuller, someone else on the Buckeyes’ offense needs to step up in order to create a balanced attack. That’s where Miller comes in. He’s already proven to be a special athlete with the ball in his hands, now he must prove he can be a reliable route-runner and pass catcher in order to get the ball.