Eric Boggs
The confetti has settled, the echoes of roaring crowds have faded into cherished memories, and the trophy sits proudly in Columbus. For Ohio State fans, this past season was one for the ages. And at the heart of it all stood a quarterback who embodied resilience, faith, and unrelenting determination—Will Howard.
When Howard arrived in Columbus from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, he carried the weight of expectations. He dreamed of winning a national championship, of developing into a next-level quarterback, of etching his name into Ohio State’s storied history. But as he bid farewell in his heartfelt thank-you message, he revealed that this journey had given him so much more than he had ever anticipated.
Howard’s impact on the field was undeniable. His final stat line reads like a testament to excellence: 309 completions on 423 passing attempts, setting a new Ohio State single-season completion percentage record of 73.1%. He threw for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns, with only 10 interceptions, culminating in an impressive quarterback rating of 175.3. And he wasn’t just a threat through the air—his 105 carries for 226 yards and 7 rushing touchdowns made him a complete weapon for the Buckeyes.
But statistics alone don’t tell the story of Will Howard. His leadership, his grit, and his unwavering faith in both his teammates and himself defined his legacy. “I believe that everything in life happens for a reason, and that God has a plan for all of us,” Howard said in his farewell message. “And I am eternally grateful that my plan led me here to THE Ohio State University.”
From the grueling offseason workouts with Coach Mick to the relentless film sessions with Coach Day and Coach Kelly, Howard poured everything into his craft. He never took for granted the opportunity to grow, to improve, to lead. He gave special thanks to those who believed in him—even when others didn’t. And when the stakes were highest, he delivered.
Fans will forever remember the deep touchdown strikes, the crucial third-down scrambles, and the poise in the face of adversity. He gave his all for the scarlet and gray, and in return, Buckeye Nation embraced him with open arms. “Thank you to Buckeye Nation for embracing me from day one,” Howard said. “Thank you for taking me in and embracing me as one of your own. I will be a Buckeye for life.”
That’s the thing about Ohio State—it’s more than just a football team. It’s a brotherhood. A tradition. A family. And though Will Howard may be moving on to chase his NFL dreams, he will always have a home in Columbus. He will always be one of us. O-H!
