Chip Kelly discusses reasoning behind naming Will Howard starting quarterback

Kansas State transfer QB Will Howard comes into Columbus with plenty of weapons at his disposal. While the Buckeyes retain star wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, they also add the No.1 wide receiver in the class of 2024, Jerimiah Smith.

Ole Miss transfer running back Quinshon Judkins, along with senior TreyVeyon Henderson will also have some sort of role in the pass game. Both players have the ability to make plays in the open field after catching passes with their speed and elusiveness.

With Howard officially being named the starting quarterback yesterday, new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly why Howard earned the role for the Buckeyes.

“It’s not just who has the strongest arm,” Kelly told the media on Friday. “But the decision-making process has always been at the top of the list. After that, it would be repetitive accuracy. And then athleticism, I think Will has all three of those.”

Although Kelly’s offenses in the past have been more run-heavy, he has experience working with talented quarterbacks. At Oregon, he worked with Marcus Mariota, who eventually won a Heisman Trophy in 2014. He also spent time with Michael Vick and Nick Foles during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles.

A plethora of weapons on offense comes with a lot of pressure, so it will be interesting to see how Howard looks in Ohio State’s offense. The Buckeyes will host in-state opponent Akron on Aug. 31 at Ohio Stadium.