In an effort to jump-start his struggling offense, Ohio State coach Luke Fickell said Thursday he will start freshman Braxton Miller at quarterback against Colorado on Saturday.
Joe Bauserman has struggled at quarterback for the Buckeyes (2-1), completing just 50 percent of his passes and going 2-for-14 against Miami last Saturday.
Fickell said Miller had been in contention for the starting spot each week this season. Bauserman is expected to get playing time against Colorado.
Ohio State is 11th in the Big Ten in total offense and 10th in scoring.
“Having to prepare for two quarterbacks won’t be a problem,” CU coach Jon Embree said. “It really isn’t a problem. Because when you get a good runner (at quarterback) who is a really good passer, you have to do that anyway.”
The stat comparison for Miller and Bauserman:
Miller is 10-of-16 passing for 152 yards, one TD, one interception, 150.42 QB rating; 13 rushes for 62 yards (4.8 yards per carry).
Bauserman is 30-of-60 passing for 365 yards, four TDs, no interceptions, 123.10 QB rating; 11 rushes for 43 yards (3.3 yards per carry).
Also, Fickell said wide receiver Corey “Philly” Brown would not be available to play after suffering an ankle injury two weeks ago.
Tom Kensler, The Denver Post
