Will Howard’s Redemption Arc: A Quarterback’s Journey to Glory and a National Championship
The story of the 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes is nothing short of legendary—a tale of redemption, grit, and perseverance, with quarterback Will Howard standing at the center of it all. At one point, it seemed like the Buckeyes’ season was on the verge of collapse. A crushing loss to rival Michigan in their final regular-season game left fans in Columbus disheartened, the program’s credibility shaken, and head coach Ryan Day facing heavy scrutiny. But when the odds seemed insurmountable, the Buckeyes flipped the script, embarking on a historic postseason run that ended in triumph.
And no one embodied that journey more than Will Howard, who led Ohio State to a National Championship victory in a way that will forever be etched in college football lore.
A Championship Run for the Ages
Ohio State entered the College Football Playoff as the No. 8 seed, an underdog in the truest sense. But instead of faltering, the Buckeyes rallied with unmatched determination:
- Round 1: They dismantled Tennessee, delivering a statement win with a commanding 42-17 victory.
- Quarterfinals: Facing the top-seeded Oregon Ducks, Ohio State proved they belonged, dominating in a 41-21 win.
- Semifinals: In a hard-fought showdown against the Texas Longhorns, they overcame adversity to secure a 28-14 victory.
- National Championship: Finally, the Buckeyes capped their Cinderella story with a 34-23 triumph over Notre Dame, solidifying their place in history.
While the entire team played a pivotal role in this remarkable run, Will Howard was the undeniable catalyst, delivering one masterclass performance after another.
The Will Howard Effect
Transferring to Ohio State after four solid years with Kansas State, Howard arrived in Columbus with one goal in mind: to win a national championship. And he did it in spectacular fashion, elevating his game to a new level and leaving a lasting mark on college football.
Howard was named the Offensive MVP of the National Championship, and his postseason stats tell the story of a quarterback who thrived under pressure:
- 1,150 passing yards
- 8 touchdowns
- Only 2 interceptions
- 95 rushing yards
- An outstanding 81% completion rate in the title game
By season’s end, Howard had achieved career-best numbers:
- 73.0% completion rate
- 4,010 passing yards
- 35 touchdowns and 10 interceptions
- 175.3 passer rating
- 226 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns
His leadership, precision, and ability to rise to the occasion became the heartbeat of Ohio State’s success.
A Heartfelt Postscript: Howard’s Message to the Fans
After the dust settled and the championship celebrations began to quiet, Howard took a moment to reflect on his incredible journey. His Instagram post, a simple yet emotional message, resonated with fans far and wide:
“Year of a lifetime. Through all the ups and downs. Wouldn’t change it for the world. National Champions! God is so Good.”
It was a statement that encapsulated the highs and lows of a grueling season and showed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead Ohio State to the pinnacle of college football.
The Recruitment That Changed Everything
For head coach Ryan Day, Howard’s transfer wasn’t just a lucky break—it was a calculated decision backed by a keen understanding of the quarterback’s potential. Speaking after the championship, Day recalled what drew him to Howard during the offseason:
“It started with me when I first met Will,” Day explained. “I saw something in him—a football IQ, intelligence, and a maturity beyond his years. Watching him at Kansas State, I saw a player who could win championships, make big plays, and show poise under pressure. He could throw with accuracy, anticipate throws, and even impact the game with his feet. When I met him in person, his intelligence and leadership sealed the deal.”
It wasn’t just Howard’s physical abilities that caught Day’s attention, but also his mental approach to the game—qualities that became critical in Ohio State’s championship push.
A Legacy Cemented
Howard’s journey to Columbus, his ascension to the starting role, and his performance in the postseason aren’t just the stuff of highlight reels—they’re the foundation of a lasting legacy. His ability to bounce back from setbacks, rally his teammates, and elevate his game when it mattered most earned him a place among the greats in Buckeyes history.
For Ohio State fans, this wasn’t just a championship season—it was a redemption story fueled by the heart and determination of a quarterback who refused to give up. Will Howard’s name will forever be linked with one of the greatest comebacks in college football history.
What’s Next for Howard?
With one year of eligibility remaining, the National Championship win might very well mark the final chapter in Howard’s college career as he prepares to take his talents to the NFL. If his 2024 performance is any indication, he’ll enter the draft as one of the most polished, battle-tested, and poised quarterbacks in recent memory.
But for now, Ohio State fans can savor the glory of a season they’ll never forget—a season that proved, once again, why the Buckeyes are a force to be reckoned with.
