By Dorrington Myers
Some believed the transfer portal would ruin college football and hurt the top teams. However, Ohio State’s championship run disproves this notion. The Buckeyes have simply adapted to the ever-changing landscape of college football, adding high-end contributors in the portal. This isn’t to say the transfer portal was the sole reason for their success—Ohio State’s elite receiver room was meticulously built from the ground up by Brian Hartline. The team was led through the gauntlet by quarterback Will Howard, who played four years at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State.
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The College Football Playoff Gauntlet
Game 1: vs. Tennessee (42-17)
• Stats: 24/29, 311 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception
• Completion Rate: 82.8%
• Yards per Attempt: 10.7
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Game 2: vs. Oregon (41-21)
• Stats: 17/26, 319 yards, 3 touchdowns
• Completion Rate: 65.4%
• Yards per Attempt: 12.3
Game 3: vs. Texas (28-14)
• Stats: 24/33, 289 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception
• Completion Rate: 72.7%
• Yards per Attempt: 8.8
Game 4: vs. Notre Dame (34-23)
• Stats: 17/21, 231 yards, 2 touchdowns
• Completion Rate: 81.0%
• Yards per Attempt: 11.0
Total Playoff numbers:
• Stats: 82/99, 1,150 yards, 8 touchdowns, 2 interceptions
• Completion Rate: 82.8%
• Yards per Attempt: 11.6
Key Observations
Howard wasn’t afraid to take risks, even with a couple of turnovers through four games. This demonstrated his resilience and leadership, as he consistently trusted his teammates to make plays.
As a rhythm passer, Howard becomes nearly unstoppable once he gets into a groove, as shown by a record-setting 13-13 start against Notre Dame. What’s even more impressive is his ability to make sound decisions with the ball in critical situations. Third downs, in particular, showcased his poise—Howard was surgical during the playoff run, executing precisely what his team needed. He distributed the ball effectively, keeping the offense balanced and in control.
Things I Liked in Each Game
vs. Tennessee:
Howard threw the ball with effortless touch, showcasing accuracy that was nothing short of artistry. From deep balls to checkdowns, every throw looked precise and controlled. He stood tall in the pocket with a strong base, exuding confidence. Most notably, Howard displayed remarkable patience against Tennessee’s zone defense, a testament to his growth and development as a quarterback.
vs. Oregon:
This game was personal, as the Ducks had won their first matchup in a close thriller. Howard responded with uncanny accuracy, completing difficult throws in tight windows. He made quick, decisive reads and consistently got the ball into the hands of his playmakers like the dominant Jeremiah Smith. His performance left no doubt, cementing the win and rewriting the narrative.
vs. Texas:
Howard’s toughness and resilience were on full display. Despite sustaining a hand injury that left a large knot on his left hand, he didn’t complain and continued to compete. Texas brought relentless pressure, leading to an early interception, but Howard quickly adjusted and bounced back. His leadership also stood out: after Jack Sawyer’s critical scoop-and-score as Texas threatened to score, Howard was quick to praise his teammate’s effort, demonstrating his humility and team-first mentality.
vs. Notre Dame:
Howard excelled in the fundamentals, making simple completions, moving the pocket effectively, and evading pressure when necessary. His composure in the fourth quarter was crucial—he delivered a key throw to Smith late in the game, setting up a field goal that sealed the victory for the Buckeyes.
How Good of a Quarterback is Will Howard?
Before transferring to Ohio State, Will Howard became the leader of the Kansas State Wildcats in the Big 12 Conference. During the 2022 season, Howard took over for the injured Adrian Martinez and guided the Wildcats to a Big 12 Championship, delivering an impressive performance with two passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown against a formidable TCU defense. This experience proved that he was battle-tested long before arriving in Columbus.
Fast forward to this season, Howard put up remarkable numbers: 4,010 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and a QBR of 89.6, complemented by seven rushing touchdowns. These stats underscore the caliber of player Howard is a polished, resilient, and dynamic quarterback who thrives under pressure.
Does his draft stock rise? Absolutely. Howard has shown everything scouts look for: leadership, toughness, decision-making, and production. It’s safe to say his performances will position him as a key prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft.
