Just like they did at the conclusion of spring practice, Ohio State’s coaches gave quarterback Will Howard a checklist of things to address during an off week following season-opening wins over Akron and Western Michigan.
Back in April, the areas of improvement included the need for Howard to gain a deeper understanding of the offense, to solidify his mechanics, to tweak his body composition and maximize every pound and inch of his 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame.
While still specific to Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, they were the kinds of requests commonly attached to most quarterbacks joining new programs.
This time, though, the requests from new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, who said the Buckeyes’ coaching staff graded every player during the bye week, were far more intricate.