Chip Kelly Updates: Buckeyes Searching For Answers To Running Game

COLUMBUS — Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly met with the media on Tuesday to discuss last week’s win over Nebraska, this week’s game at Penn State, and everything else in between. Kelly was asked about the Buckeyes’ struggles in the running game, quarterback Will Howard, the offensive line, his playcalling, and much more. The highlights of everything that was said can be found below.

How much do you think about adding wrinkles in a big game like this? Every game is a big game. Every game plan is specific to the opponent.
“We’re not at the point where we’re trying to develop anything right now. We’re trying to win the football game.” You have an understanding of what you’d like to do in a game but then it happens and you have to adjust to it.
Could this be a game where Will Howard is more involved in the running game? Depends on the opponent. Penn State is extremely sound. They can generate pressure with just four guys. That allows PSU to play more coverages. They don’t blitz as much as some other teams they play.
“You think about a lot of things when things aren’t working.”
Thoughts on PSU’s offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki? Haven’t been able to watch him a ton this year. “I really liked what he did at Kansas.”
What makes Abdul Carter so disruptive? “He’s extremely explosive for his size.” He’s a like like Micah Parsons in that way. He can play LB and DE. It’s hard to replicate him in practice. His ability to get off on the snap makes him difficult to handle. They are now moving him around from side to side as well.
Josh Simmons’ absence shows up in both the passing game and running game because he was so good at both. When you miss a player of his talent, it’s going to hurt, but people have to step up. Everybody has injuries around the nation this year. They knew there would be attrition this year. You have to be able to weather that storm if you’re going to be successful.
The offensive line is where they need it to be right now because that’s who they have. “It’s part of the game.” Can’t feel sorry for yourselves. This is the reality of college football.
They need to do a better job of converting short-yardage situations. It’s a bit part of this week’s game plan.
There is a maturity to Jeremiah Smith that most people don’t have. “He’s as serious a football player as I’ve been around.” It’s almost like you’re dealing with a 10-year NFL veteran. “It’s rare.” Defenses are starting to move safeties to him, so they’re starting to move him around as well. His ability to grasp the game plan is another credit to him.
How do you see this game in terms of the Oregon game: They’re their own separate entities. This game would be exciting without the Oregon game happening.
On Will Howard’s Pennsylvania emotions? The team is already motivated.
Every game you have a short-yardage game plan against that week’s opponent. This week’s game plan will be different than last week’s.
How confident are you that this OL can win a championship? “I’m very confident.” There are a bunch of really good football players in this offensive line room. Confidence in Donovan Jackson at left tackle? Donovan Jackson can play anywhere.
Was Will Howard reading on the running plays as much as he had in previous games? It was about the same as any other week.