A legacy is more than just wins or titles, as it leaves an impact on people. For Ohio State football stars Will Howard and Jack Sawyer, their historic season has made them household names in Columbus. However, that’s not the only reason their fans walked in freezing weather just for an autograph.
NIL can be misused and abused by college teams and players, but some deals are so great, everyone benefits. That was the case when Sawyer and Howard visited a local Raising Cane’s to take orders and interact with fans.
Will Howard and Jack Sawyer Raised Cane’s Event
Howard and Sawyer gave fans an unforgettable experience when they surprised customers at Raising Cane’s just days after their championship victory. The pair spent over an hour working at the fast food chicken restaurant, serving behind the counter, taking orders, filling drinks, and greeting supporters. Fans, clad in Ohio State jerseys, lined up early for autographs, photos, and the chance to see their heroes up close.
🙌 Cheers to the Natty and a great shift! 🏈 @whoward_ @jacksawyer33 pic.twitter.com/fwxYtPXepH
— Raising Cane's (@raisingcanes) January 22, 2025
Reflecting on the outpouring of love and support, Howard shared: “It just shows you how much it means, really, to this city and to this fan base.”
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The event was about promoting a brand. Meanwhile, it created a chance to connect with the community that stood by them throughout the season. Howard and Sawyer could be seen joking about Howard’s late arrival. Not only that, but they also laughed while reading quirky promotional lines on camera.
Chicken fingers with a side of smile when @whoward_ is working the drive thru 🏈😊 pic.twitter.com/0PCEFEEzND
— Raising Cane's (@raisingcanes) January 22, 2025
Howard and Sawyer’s standout performances earned them MVP honors in the Buckeyes’ semifinal victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. Howard, the offensive MVP, threw for 231 yards and two touchdowns in the championship game against Notre Dame. Sawyer, meanwhile, was a catalyst of the movement to get draft-eligible players back for the 2024 season, a move that led to their National Championship win.
He was the leader of the Buckeyes’ defense. In the championship game, he ensured that the Fighting Irish never found consistent momentum.
Howard and Sawyer Are Celebrating A Week of Joy For Columbus
The celebrations didn’t stop at Raising Cane’s. The Buckeyes’ victory party stretched long into the night after their 34-23 win over Notre Dame. Festivities continued the following day as fans gathered to welcome the team back to Columbus. The excitement culminated in a grand event at Ohio Stadium, where thousands of fans enjoyed free admission to celebrate the championship season.
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Howard’s journey to Columbus was unique. A former Kansas State star, he was essentially pushed out of Manhattan, transferring to Ohio State for his final season, and it paid off spectacularly. He finished the year with over 4,000 passing yards, 35 touchdown passes, and seven rushing scores.
Sawyer’s dominance on defense complemented Howard’s offensive brilliance, forming a duo that led Ohio State to its first national title since 2014. Alongside them, running back Quinshon Judkins played a critical role in the championship game, scoring three touchdowns to secure the win.
Judkins also leveraged his success off the field, partnering with Raising Cane’s earlier in the season as part of a collaboration with Sportiqe.
Now, it’s off to the NFL Draft for Sawyer and Howard, who should hear their names called in late April. But first, the duo had to be sure to spend time with fans, with Raising Cane’s acting as the middleman.
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