Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard delivered a remarkable performance at the Rose Bowl, cementing his status as a key player for the team as they pursue the national title. After facing fierce criticism this season, Howard showed up when it mattered most, leading the Buckeyes to a convincing 41-21 victory over the top-ranked Oregon Ducks.
Came January 1, 2025, Howard’s fast start set the pace for Ohio State, as he threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns. The Buckeyes soared to a shocking 34-0 lead early on, thanks to Howard’s pinpoint passing and stellar support from true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who caught two touchdown passes among his seven receptions.
"We came out and played angry and I think it showed," Howard expressed after the game, emphasizing the team’s drive and focus. This win was particularly sweet for Howard, who described it as “unbelievable” to have redeemed himself against the Ducks, especially after Ohio State's narrow loss to Oregon earlier this season.
Challenges lay ahead for Howard and the Buckeyes. They face the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl on January 10, 2025. With the Buckeyes riding high from their Rose Bowl win, Howard must continue his impressive form against Texas's formidable defense.
The stakes are high for Howard, as coach Ryan Day noted, “He’s grown...and I think he understands his job is to be the number one leader.” Expectations are elevated, especially after Howard demonstrated his capability during pressure situations—throwing zero interceptions against Oregon and scoring touchdowns downfield.
This season, Howard has amassed impressive numbers overall, with 3,490 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and only nine interceptions. Yet, his secret to success doesn’t just lie on individual performance but rather on the collective strength of the Ohio State offense. The support from his teammates—particularly from Smith, who shined with 187 yards during the Rose Bowl—has been instrumental.
Despite potential skepticism over his capabilities, especially surrounding big games, Howard firmly believes he can silence his critics. "I think a lot of people think in big games I don’t take care of the football, I don’t show up or I’m not an elite quarterback," he stated. But with his recent performances, including two 300-plus-yard games against Oregon and Tennessee, Howard is pushing back against those doubts.
Oregon coach Dan Lanning recognized his team couldn't compete with Ohio State's level of play on Wednesday. "They clicked tonight and we didn’t. And I didn’t get our team prepared," he mentioned, highlighting the Buckeyes’ undeniable dominance during the game.
Howard’s throws were not just numerous; they were clinical—particularly his deep passing game, with touchdown completions exceeding 40 yards. He completed four out of four deep passes for 146 yards against Oregon, indicating he has found his rhythm. This season, his completion rate on deep balls ranks as the best among FBS quarterbacks.
But can Howard replicate his Rose Bowl success against Texas? The Longhorns present challenges of their own, with strong QB Quinn Ewers poised to lead after overcoming recent setbacks. Howard must remain vigilant and strategic—playting under pressure, he recorded impressive outcomes earlier, completing 54.5% of his contested throws against Oregon. It showcases both his resilience and skill.
Heading to the Cotton Bowl, the Buckeyes are resolved to maintain momentum, and Howard’s leadership will be pivotal. With each game, the buzz around Howard is growing; he is becoming one of the standout quarterbacks this postseason.
Ohio State has demonstrated they can overpower the best, but the matchup against Texas is steeped with unpredictability, guaranteed to test both Howard and the entire Buckeye squad. Yet, the confidence from their Rose Bowl triumph propels them forward, as they eagerly aim for the national championship.
It is clear Howard's performance will be under the microscope now more than ever. This is his chance to solidify his reputation, not just as the quarterback of the Buckeyes, but as one of the greats to watch moving forward—igniting hope for his team and their dedicated fanbase.