DaytonDailyNews.com

OXFORD — The one time Kyle Decker got into the game for Miami University standing behind center instead of kneeling, last season in the 47-14 victory over Bowling Green, he did not throw a pass.

And although the senior from Granville remains in the line of succession to start at quarterback for the RedHawks should injuries take a serious turn — much like the U.S. secretary of state, for instance, is in line to assume the duties of president — Decker knows his chances are limited.

Still, he has found a niche with the RedHawks. It isn't glamorous, but it is vital.

As the holder for place-kicker Jared Parseghian, Decker is a key component for the one aspect of the team that has achieved near perfection this season.

Parseghian, Decker and snapper Mike Rummler have teamed to convert 28 out of 29 kicks this season, 12-of-13 field goals and 16-of-16 extra points.

"Nate, he's one of my best friends and I couldn't be happier to see him succeed," Decker said. "But it takes three people to succeed," he pointed out. "Mike gets me the ball. He's great. It's his second year, and rarely do I have to snag a bad snap from him.

"I know my role, I take a lot of pride in it," Decker added. "Mike and I want to make it as easy as possible for Nate to succeed."

Once in the not-too-distant past, Decker was a record-setting quarterback. As a senior in high school he completed 234 passes for 3,228 yards and 35 touchdowns with only seven interceptions. He was named Ohio Division IV Player of the Year.

Decker also was the holder at Granville High, and that had a much more dramatic effect on his career at Miami.

Decker was redshirted as a preferred walk-on in 2004. The following year Miami didn't need a quarterback; they already had senior Josh Betts. But they did need a holder.

"I told them I would do it," Decker said. "I wanted to contribute in any way. I knew it might not work out at quarterback. Coach Montgomery was willing to give me the opportunity and I'm very grateful for that, and I ran with that."

That year, Decker helped Todd Soderquist convert a league-high 19 field goals, and he has been at it ever since.

Still, he would love to drop back just once and throw it deep. In case he is needed, Decker goes through quarterback drills in practice, though he spends more time with the kickers.

"I'm a fifth-year senior, so I try to let some of the younger quarterbacks (get more practice time)," he said. "I get my reps when I can, but the younger guys need to develop, too.

"Yeah, I miss it, being able to contribute a little more," he said. "I wouldn't be playing the game if it weren't for my wanting to play quarterback."

Still, Decker has found his role, which will include a stroll to midfield for the coin flip for the game tonight, Nov. 4, at Buffalo. He has been selected as a Miami team captain for the game against the Bulls.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2197 or pconrad@coxohio.com.