He served as the head football coach at the University of Central Oklahoma—from 1977 to 2002, compiling a career college football record of 161–106–6, four NAIA playoff appearances, three NCAA Division II playoff appearances, two conference championships, and a national championship.
[7] Prior to the 1968 season, Howard accepted a position at Central State College in Edmond, Oklahoma.
He oversaw the program's transition from a brief period in NCAA Division II back to NAIA competition, as an independent.
Three years later he returned to the playoffs this time winning the NAIA National Championship over Mesa State 14–11.
In 1985 the Bronchos lost in the first round to Henderson State in the institution's final NAIA playoff appearance.
In 1996 the renamed Central Oklahoma Bronchos posted a 9–3 record, finished second in the Lone Star Conference, and made the program's first appearance in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
[10] In 1998 the Bronchos finished the regular season undefeated, and won their first Lone Star Conference Championship.