Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller says he's moving to H-back in 2015
Braxton Miller expects to dominate again this fall, but just not at quarterback.
Miller will be moving to H-back this season for Ohio State, he told Pete Thamel of Sports Illustrated on Thursday.
"For the most part, it’s going to be H-back and punt return," Miller said. "It’s a long process to get back totally to throwing and throwing every day. This is the smarter thing for right now, God blessed me with a lot of talent and different opportunities. I’m going to have fun with that and still score a lot of touchdowns and help the team out and be dominant at that."
The move could be beneficial for all involved. Miller is recovering from two shoulder surgeries and is trying to regain his throwing motion. Playing the H-back role will allow him to utilize his athleticism and get the ball in his hands in space.
Meanwhile, the Buckeyes still have an embarrassment of riches at quarterback. Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett are more than capable of handling the duties behind center, and Miller's move only gives Ohio State another dimension on offense.
Buckeyes receivers coach Zach Smith thinks it will be easy for Miller to make the transition.
"Braxton Miller can play wide receiver as long as he wants to play it," Smith said. "His speed, strength, talent, commitment and, really, lifestyle will allow him to be like Joey Galloway. It’s going to be a matter of how quickly he grows into the position, but the sky is the limit for him."
Head coach Urban Meyer could use the explosive Miller similarly to the way he used Percy Harvin at Florida; look for the Buckeyes to find creative ways to get Miller involved in the offense both near the line of scrimmage and downfield.
Meyer said no firm decision has been made with respect to Miller, though:
I haven't made those decisions yet. It's a little bit jumping the gun here. Braxton came to see me. He's been talking to me about it (the switch). We've been working at it, but I'm not ready to say exactly how we're going to use him yet.
However the team opts to use his skill set this season, Miller certainly isn't lacking for confidence in his new role.
"I want to be the best at what I do," Miller said. "Don’t look back. Keep looking forward. I appreciate everyone who supported me and was there for me (from) when I had surgery until now. I’m ready to put on that Scarlet and Grey and make some highlights."