Will Howard made his imprint in Ohio State Buckeyes lore in just one year, leading the program to a dominant College Football Playoff run and its first national championship under head coach Ryan Day.
Will Howard’s Heartfelt Farewell: A Buckeye’s Journey to the NFL
Howard guided Ohio State on a remarkable run that will not be forgotten. Despite various ups and downs in the regular season, the team went on to win the national championship.
Nobody knew what to expect when Howard committed to transfer. Some expected him to be good, while others saw him as the team’s fragile element heading into the season.
On concluding his extraordinary stint with the Buckeyes, the fifth-year senior prepares for the NFL Draft and shares an emotional message for the program:
“I believe that everything in life happens for a reason and that God has a plan for all of us. I am eternally grateful that my plan led me here to The Ohio State University. When I first came in here to Ohio State, I had dreams of competing for a national championship, developing as a player, and hopefully going on to the NFL.”
Thank you Ohio State. For everything. pic.twitter.com/qL0z1K9huA
— Will Howard (@whoward_) February 1, 2025
Howard’s single season at Ohio State was nothing short of spectacular. He transferred from Kansas State and led the Buckeyes to a national championship, demonstrating tremendous leadership and skill.
His performance in the final game vs. Notre Dame was particularly impressive, as he completed 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns and ran for an additional 59 yards. This outstanding performance earned him the Offensive MVP award for the game.
In the 2024 college football season, Howard completed 73.1% of his pass attempts, totaling 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He also accumulated 226 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.
KEEP READING: How Howard’s Football IQ Won Him Ohio State’s Trust
It’s painful to see him leave after only one season. Having him for a second year would have been fantastic. Regardless of whether he is a one-and-done player, Ohio State supporters will always love him for what he contributed to the team’s success this season.
Hopefully, Howard will be drafted and settle in a refreshing situation. Who knows, maybe Buckeyes fans will get to see him play on Sundays someday.
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