NEW ORLEANS — It’s only fitting that Urban Meyer has finally chimed in on the Braxton Miller question.
He was the one who got momentum rolling on the idea, anyway.
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Meyer said Wednesday morning that he expects Miller, Ohio State’s injured quarterback, to return to Columbus next fall and not transfer to another school. Because he graduated two weeks ago, Miller can transfer as a graduate student and play immediately in 2015.
“There are a lot of things that go on out there that are out of his control,” Meyer said of the speculation that Miller will transfer. “So, we've had conversations and I expect him to be back at Ohio State.”
Meyer began this season by saying Miller was his quarterback for 2015, but quickly changed his mind midway through the season when it was obvious Miller’s backup J.T. Barrett had quickly developed into one of the game’s best players — and a better thrower than Miller.
Meyer went from saying Miller was his quarterback to saying there would be competition for the spot in spring practice. But there’s little doubt Barrett is the team’s most complete quarterback.
In other words, does Miller really want to return to Ohio State to be Barrett’s backup? And does he want to return to play for a new offensive coordinator (Tom Herman is the new Houston coach)?
There are also still issues with Miller’s shoulder. Meyer has said Miller is progressing well after his throwing shoulder surgery, but Herman told Sporting News on Tuesday that Miller might not be ready to compete in the spring.
Barrett broke his ankle in the Michigan game and is out for the remainder of the season.
“I don’t know if either (Miller or Barrett) will be healthy enough,” Herman said. “That (competition) could be something that starts in fall camp.”
If Miller is around, that is. Both Miller and Barrett were not available for Ohio State’s Media Day on Tuesday, and school officials said it was each player’s choice not to attend.
“I’ve had conversations with (Miller),” Meyer said. “I don’t expect (Miller to leave).”