Will Howard: The Rising Star of Ohio State's Quarterback Position
Will Howard is the latest sensation in the world of college football, having recently been named the starting quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. This article delves into the background, skills, and aspirations of this talented athlete, highlighting why he is considered a key player in Ohio State's quest for another national championship.
Born on September 24, 2001, in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, Will Howard grew up with a passion for football. He attended Downingtown West High School, where he excelled both on and off the field. Howard was named the Maxwell Football Club Pennsylvania Player of the Year after passing for 2,543 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior. His high school career was marked by impressive statistics: 5,308 passing yards and 48 touchdown passes, along with 512 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. He was also a two-time All-Area selection in basketball and scored over 1,000 points in his varsity career.
Howard's collegiate journey began at Kansas State University, where he joined as an early enrollee in January 2020. Initially serving as the backup to Skylar Thompson, he started the final seven games of his freshman season after Thompson suffered a serious injury. During his time at Kansas State, Howard played in 34 games and started 28 times. He set the school's career record with 48 touchdown passes and tied the single-season record with 24 touchdown passes in 2023.
In 2022, Howard's performance was instrumental in leading the Wildcats to the Big 12 championship. He completed 19 of 27 passes for 196 yards and three touchdowns in relief of injured quarterback Adrian Martinez. This experience not only showcased his ability to handle pressure but also demonstrated his leadership skills on the field.
After a stellar four-year career at Kansas State, Howard entered the transfer portal in November 2023. He committed to Ohio State University in January 2024 and has since been working towards his master's degree in sports coaching. This move has been seen as strategic, given Ohio State's strong football program and Howard's ambition to become an NFL quarterback.
Howard's transition to Ohio State has been smooth, with head coach Ryan Day praising his command of the offense and his ability to lead the team. Day noted that Howard has graded out significantly ahead of the other quarterbacks during practice sessions, making him the clear choice for starting quarterback.
The Ohio State Buckeyes are known for their high expectations, and Howard is no exception. The team's goals include beating Michigan, winning the Big Ten Championship, and ultimately securing a national championship. Howard understands the gravity of these expectations and has expressed his determination to meet them. In an interview with AtoZ Sports, he emphasized the importance of beating Michigan in Columbus, highlighting the rivalry's significance in college football.
Colt McCoy, a former Ohio State quarterback and current analyst, has detailed the strengths of Howard and the Ohio State offense. McCoy noted that Howard's ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate deep throws makes him a formidable opponent. He also highlighted the talent of Ohio State's receivers, stating that they can make catches look easy, making Howard's job significantly easier.
Howard's physical attributes and playing style make him a unique asset to the Buckeyes. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 235 pounds, he possesses both the arm strength and agility required for a quarterback. His deep ball accuracy has been an area of improvement, but with the talented receivers at his disposal, he is confident in his ability to make significant plays.
As the Buckeyes prepare for their upcoming season, Will Howard is ready to take on the challenge. With his experience from Kansas State and his determination to succeed at Ohio State, he is poised to make a significant impact in college football. His journey from high school standout to transfer quarterback is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he leads the Buckeyes towards their goals, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he performs under pressure.
In conclusion, Will Howard is more than just a talented quarterback; he is a driven athlete with a clear vision for his future in football. His background, skills, and aspirations make him an exciting player to watch as he navigates the challenges of college football. As Ohio State looks to reclaim its place at the top of the college football hierarchy, Will Howard stands ready to play a pivotal role in their quest for success.
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