Why Luke Fickell Needs to Open Up the Quarterback Competition for Ohio State

Every and any Buckeye fan who witnessed the monumental collapse against Nebraska can be sure of a few things: Braxton Miller is indeed the QB of the future; Joe Bauserman is NOT the best choice to replace Miller in case of an emergency; and finally, the second string spot should be opened up for Taylor Graham and Kenny Guiton. 

On paper, Bauserman looks like the kind of guy who is a suitable backup. Perhaps one that splits time with another QB based on scenarios. But those of us who have seen Bauserman in action know wholeheartedly that he is definitely not the man Ohio State should have under center if Miller can't go.

Now, this article is not being written to bash Bauserman and point out his flaws (of which he has a few...), but more to show the average Buckeye fan our other options and to open up discussion amongst the more knowledgeable enthusiasts.

Joe is sporting an acceptable 111.4 quarterback rating but is throwing at a 46 percent completion clip, which begs the question: Are there other options for Ohio State to look at for quarterback?

The answer is a timid yes. A very timid yes. Backups Graham and Guiton are respectable athletes in their own rights but have little to no experience whatsoever. Highlights of all four QBs can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AC-QVf1uSdA. 

The Case for Joe Bauserman

Miller is firmly rooted at this point as Ohio State's #1 QB, but the second string spot is a little more hazy. Bauserman has an awkward 3/4 or possibly even 1/2 release that gives him little accuracy. The former minor leaguer has a decent arm but it is certainly nothing to get excited over; in fact is cause for intense concern.

As mentioned above, Joe is throwing at under 50 percent on the season, with a respectable five touchdowns and a surprising and misleading one interception. After video reviews of the Miami and Nebraska games (which were as painful as anything to relive), it is incredibly clear Bauserman gives Ohio State little chance to succeed.

Bauserman is a combined 3-24 passing with 26 yards and one interception in those two games, which equates to a 13.3 quarterback rating. Versus ranked teams is an entirely different scenario: he is a bewildering 1-10 with an interception which bangs out a 0.9 QB rating... 0.9!!! I have all the respect in the world for Joe as a person but as a quarterback, he just cant do the job. Plain and simple, sorry folks.

The Case for Taylor Graham

Graham is your quintessential drop-back passer. Tall with a decently quick release that looks mechanically sound. Standing at a sound 6 foot 4 inches and weighing in at 230 lbs, Graham is comparable to similar in size to former Ohio State QB and solid game manager Craig Krenzel.

While Krenzel did win a national championship, let's not get ahead of ourselves and begin to expect the same of Graham just yet. In the 2011 spring game, Graham looked solid, showing adequate zip on his passes and good touch. His sideline throws were crisp and on target, and he showed good timing and touch when he hooked up with receiver T.Y. Williams for a long touchdown.

However, there are drawbacks to Graham's game that could be dangerous when paired with an uncertain offensive line. He is as stiff as board in the pocket and as mobile and agile as the tree that board is made from. He also showed hesitation in just throwing the ball away under pressure and didn't seem to read blitzes particularly well, as he was sacked multiple times.

Perhaps Graham will get a look in a situation where a long throw is needed or if the O-line is looking strong and Miller isn't playing for whatever reason and because Bauserman is no longer a viable option.

The case for Kenny Guiton

Guiton is a tad slight for a QB at the BCS level, weighing in at only 195 lbs. His case is going to be incredibly weak and short because he just doesn't project as a QB. I saw during the Nebraska game he was lined up during kick-offs, which leads me to believe he has moved positions. His -29.0 career QB rating also doesn't help is case much. Case closed for Guiton in this one. 

All in all, and as cliched as that phrase is I am going to stick with it, Miller is entrenched as the Ohio State QB until the next Terrelle Pryor-esque athlete shows up on campus who can do damage like Pryor did. (Pun is intended but not wanted).

Bauserman doesn't have any momentum and is a game killer who simply was never meant to play BCS level football, although I have respect for the man for sticking around as long as he did. Feel free to open up your debate in the comments section below, a good debate is always welcome.