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Sitting at 9-0, with a 21-game winning streak secured, there isn't much for the Ohio State Buckeyes to be disappointed about in 2013. If there is one disappointment, it's that quarterback Braxton Miller, an early Heisman favorite heading into the season, saw those chances diminish with a sprained knee suffered in the second week of the season.
Miller exited the week two game against San Diego State very early after suffering the knee injury, and missed the entirety of the games at Cal and at home against Florida A&M. Senior backup Kenny Guiton filled in more than ably during Miller's recovery, completing 64 of 94 passes in those three games for 643 yards and 12 touchdowns, with just two interceptions. Guiton also rushed for 180 yards and one touchdown on 24 attempts in those three games.
And Miller would undoubtedly still be in the running for serious Heisman consideration had he not missed those games due to injury. In 2013, Miller's accuracy as a pocket passer has increased dramatically, with his completion percentage of 72.5% eclipsing last year's total of 58.3%. Despite missing nearly three games with the knee sprain, Miller has already thrown as many passing touchdowns so far this season, 15, as he did throughout all of the 2012 season.
With Ohio State looking dominant against several opponents this season, Kenny Guiton has had the opportunity to spend some more time on the field, which also means Braxton Miller isn't getting as much opportunity to pad his Heisman stats. The part-time play from both makes their stat lines even more impressive.
Miller and Guiton have combined to complete 183 of 257 attempts this season, for a completion percentage of 71.2%. The two quarterbacks have combined for 2,065 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. On the ground, Miller and Guiton have managed 717 yards and seven touchdowns.
There's no such thing as a joint Heisman, so Braxton Miller and Kenny Guiton will have to settle for knowing they have each greatly impacted the Buckeyes' success this season. Both quarterbacks deserve praise for how well they have developed, and how effectively they have played this season.