Columbia, Mo. ? Brad Smith already is receiving Heisman Trophy consideration for his sensational running ability.

Missouri’s coaching staff wants to expand the quarterback’s passing game.

Through the Tigers’ first week of practice, the passing attack has been inconsistent — in part because of their unproven receiving corps.

But the Tigers, No. 18 in the Associated Press’ preseason poll, said Sunday that they could see progress already.

“I think we’re doing OK,” coach Gary Pinkel said. “We’re going to scrimmage Tuesday morning, so we’ll see then. We feel very good about it.”

Two of Missouri’s three starting receivers return, along with an influx of talented freshmen.

Junior wide receiver Sean Coffey, who had fared well in practice before separating his left shoulder Thursday, said extensive offseason work had improved the Tigers’ passing game.

“We worked real hard over the summer, just getting our timing down and things like that,” Coffey said. “The guys put in a lot of extra time when they didn’t have to. I think it shows now.”

Quarterbacks coach David Yost said Smith’s ability to scramble — he amassed 2,435 rushing yards in his first two seasons — made him want to leave the pocket too early.

“One thing we’ve talked about with Brad is not always to look at one guy and just run,” Yost said.

“He relies on his running, and it’s hard for him to say, ‘Why shouldn’t I run?”‘