based on defensive formations." College GameDay analyst Kirk Herbstreit likened Burrow to a "co-offensive coordinator", stating "That's the NFL model, when you have a quarterback able to invest and communicate at that level. [Burrow] is the cutting edge of that mold. When I watch LSU, it's not just Joe Brady's offense—it's Joe Brady and Joe Burrow's offense." Burrow plays chess in his spare time, as well as during game preparation. He keeps a chessboard in his locker. Prior to Super Bowl LVI, Burrow played ten matches of chess on Chess.com. Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, who would play chess with Burrow, commented "The fact that he plays chess lets you know that he's able to prioritize certain things and articulate things very fast and have formation recognition." Accuracy and physical traits Sportswriters have praised Burrow's accuracy, calling his ball placement elite. Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan has stated that Burrow has "an uncanny ability to place the ball accurately on the move anywhere on the field." Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer wrote that Burrow possess elite traits in regards to his "combination of picking up the blitz and his accuracy outside the pocket". Indeed, Burrow's pocket management, particularly his movement and footwork within the pocket to help him avoid sacks, has been noted by sportswriters. The Athletic wrote positively of Burrow's "ability to work a broken pocket," stating that Burrow evades defenders and is able to both find space to deliver a throw or run with the ball himself. Intangibles Intangibles such as dedication, work ethic, and leadership also contributed to the Bengals' decision to pick him first overall. Former New England Patriots running back Kevin Faulk compared Burrow to Tom Brady, noting the former's poise and competitiveness. Once in the NFL, Burrow drew further comparisons to Brady from Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Burrow's leadership has also been noted by teammates and opponents alike; veteran Mike Daniels spoke on Burrow being voted a team captain as a rookie, stating that Burrow earned the respect of his veteran teammates before even playing. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has stated "Not only is he a great football player, I think he's a great leader. He has that special knack where he can lead anybody." Mahomes and Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen have also noted Burrow's "swag" or "swagger". Indeed, Burrow has been noted by writers for his "cool" demeanor both