Braxton Miller had 140 yards of total offense in his debut at receiver for Ohio State.
People were quick to praise Braxton Miller when he decided to switch positions this offseason. A former quarterback, Miller is a two-time Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year. But with J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones on the roster, it became clear that the fifth-year senior's role was going to have to change in order to make an impact for the Buckeyes. So Miller decided to make the transition to wide receiver. It was a selfless act, sure. But could the former QB really hack it as a wide out with only a few weeks of practice?
The short answer: uh, yes. He absolutely can. Miller played a huge role in Ohio State's 42-24 win over Virginia Tech, gaining 140 yards and scoring two touchdowns on just eight touches. His first score came through the air:
But the Buckeye vet was only getting started. He then pulled off a dazzling spin move, which lead to another touchdown, out of his bag of tricks. Also in his bag of tricks, apparently, is a TD celebration honoring close friend LeBron James, which he shows in the end zone:
Hey @SportsCenter, save the #1 spot on the #SCtop10 for Braxton Miller » http://t.co/A6P8hRhP7N #OSUvsVT
— ESPN CollegeFootball (@ESPNCFB) September 8, 2015
James was downright giddy to see Miller back succeeding with Ohio State:
I see you lil bro @BraxtonMiller5!!! Hit em with "The Silencer"
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 8, 2015
Newly minted starting quarterback Jones couldn't help but try to mimic his teammate's gracefulness:
Maybe that's best left to the receivers, Cardale.
A little over a year ago, Miller had shoulder surgery that forced him to miss all of 2014. Now, he's playing on a defending national champion, in an entirely different position.
And he's just as much of a star now as he ever was before.
