Chip Kelly, the new offensive coordinator for Ohio State, has brought a fresh perspective to the Buckeyes' offense, particularly in his use of in-helmet communication and strategic play-calling. In his first outing calling plays from the booth since his time at Oregon in 2008, Kelly encountered few issues, but he emphasized the importance of streamlining communication from the booth to the sidelines.
Kelly's approach to in-helmet communication is meticulous. The mic is live from the end of the previous play until 15 seconds are left on the play clock, but Kelly and his team are not talking for the entire duration. Instead, they focus on making quick decisions and relaying the necessary information to quarterback Will Howard as swiftly as possible. Howard cannot communicate back, so the coaching staff must be brief and clear in their instructions.
Efficient Communication and Play Selection
During a play, Kelly and his team decide on the next call based on factors like the down, distance, and field position. They then relay this information to Howard, who must digest it quickly and make any necessary adjustments at the line of scrimmage. This system often involves giving Howard two or three plays to choose from, allowing him to read the defense and select the best option.
The use of in-helmet communication has been a game-changer, but it also presents challenges. Since Howard cannot respond, the coaching staff relies on hand signals and other visual cues to ensure he has received the information correctly. Despite these challenges, Howard has practiced working through these communications since transferring to Ohio State in the spring, developing solutions for potential technical issues.
Impact on Team Strategy and Player Roles
Kelly's influence extends beyond communication; he has also reshaped the team's offensive strategy. With a strong emphasis on the running game, Ohio State is leveraging its talented running back duo, TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Kelly aims to give both players a larger workload, and running backs coach Carlos Locklyn plays a crucial role in keeping them fresh and effective.
The addition of Kelly has also allowed head coach Ryan Day to be more involved in other aspects of the team, such as special teams and defense. Day's increased presence in these areas has been beneficial, as he can now provide more direct support and encouragement to the players during games.
Early Season Performance and Future Outlook
In their first game with Kelly calling plays, the Buckeyes showed promise but also areas for improvement. Kelly described the performance as 'okay,' noting that there were moments of inconsistency and a need for greater diversity in play-calling. Despite this, the team's ability to settle into a rhythm and execute plays effectively was a positive sign for the season ahead.
As the season progresses, Kelly's unique perspective from the booth and his innovative use of in-helmet communication are expected to continue shaping Ohio State's offense. With a talented roster and a well-orchestrated strategy, the Buckeyes are poised to make a significant impact in college football.
