Braxton Miller Injury: Updates on Ohio State QB's Shoulder and Return

The outlook for Ohio State’s 2014 football season became much brighter when quarterback Braxton Miller decided to return for his senior season, but it will be some time before he is fully healthy again.

Tim May of The Columbus Dispatch reported on the quarterback’s injured shoulder:

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Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right (throwing) shoulder on Friday, two sources close to the football program confirmed for The Dispatch tonight.

The surgery is considered a minor procedure, but the recovery likely will limit his activity during spring practice starting on March 4.

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ESPN's Brett McMurphy confirmed that Miller had surgery on Friday:

Miller hurt his shoulder in the Buckeyes’ Orange Bowl loss to Clemson, although he did finish the game in what looked to be considerable pain.

Lynne Sladky/Associated Press

Miller talked about his shoulder on Wednesday, according to May:

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Miller spoke Wednesday after receiving the Chicago Tribune Silver Football award as Big Ten MVP.

“You’ve got to take time for rest after a football season like that, but my body is well, it’s rested,” Miller said. “It’s ready to get motivated again and get back out there on the field.”

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Clearly, Miller is one of the primary keys for Ohio State going forward, especially after backup Kenny Guiton’s graduation. Ensuring Miller’s shoulder is fully healthy before the season, even if it does cut into his spring practice, is essential if the Buckeyes hope to challenge for the Big Ten title and a spot in the new College Football Playoff.

The Buckeyes have national title aspirations once again next season, and Miller in particular has to be considered one of the early Heisman Trophy candidates. Any complications or lingering effects from the injury would derail both of those goals for the Buckeyes' senior quarterback, so it's wise for him to fix the problem now.