Following the National Title, Will Howard Gives Ohio State Supporters a Parting Message
Will Howard’s remarkable journey at Ohio State University came to a powerful conclusion in 2025 after leading the Buckeyes to a national championship victory over Notre Dame. The quarterback’s unexpected yet profound role in this victory, combined with his exceptional performance, left an indelible mark on Buckeye Nation. After celebrating the win, Howard took a moment to reflect on his time at Ohio State, expressing his deep gratitude and offering a heartfelt message to the fans, teammates, and coaches who made his year unforgettable. This article delves into the content of Howard’s parting message, looking back at his accomplishments and examining how his story became a defining moment for Ohio State football.
A Journey of Uncertainty and Gratitude
Will Howard’s road to Ohio State wasn’t a typical one. Originally a transfer from Kansas State, Howard had been a highly regarded quarterback, but joining a powerhouse program like Ohio State came with its own set of challenges and expectations. Many wondered whether the transfer would seamlessly fit into a system as complex and high-powered as Ohio State’s. However, after just one season with the Buckeyes, Howard emerged as the key player that would ultimately lead Ohio State to their 2025 national title. His message to the Ohio State community reflects this unexpected success and a personal journey filled with growth, faith, and perseverance.
In a video posted shortly after the national championship game, Howard took a moment to express his thanks, starting with a message of faith and belief in the greater plan. He shared, “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. Little did I know, walking away from this experience, I’d get so much more.” This statement is not only a reflection on his football journey but a testament to how his time at Ohio State transformed his perspective on life.
Faith and Brotherhood: The Heart of His Experience
A theme that resonated throughout Howard’s message was the powerful impact of faith and the deep relationships he built over the course of his season. Ohio State is known not only for its football excellence but also for fostering a close-knit and supportive team culture. For Howard, that sense of community became central to his experience.
Howard shared that his teammates’ unwavering faith in God and their commitment to one another moved him in ways he couldn’t have anticipated. “The faith of the men in the locker room has moved me more than they could even imagine and has strengthened my faith throughout this whole year,” Howard explained. For Howard, the Buckeyes weren’t just teammates; they were brothers who supported one another on and off the field. This sense of brotherhood became a core part of his identity as a Buckeye.
Gratitude to Coaches: The Architects of Success
While Howard’s success on the field was undeniable, he was quick to acknowledge the people behind his development. Coaches Ryan Day, Chip Kelly, and Billy Fessler played pivotal roles in his growth, both as a player and as an individual. Howard made sure to thank each of them personally in his farewell message.
“To Coach Ryan Day, thank you for believing in me when not a lot of others did,” Howard began. His relationship with Day, who took a chance on him as a transfer, formed the foundation of his growth as the starting quarterback. Howard was quick to point out that without Day’s trust and guidance, his success would not have been possible.
He also singled out Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly for his influence on his development as a dual-threat quarterback. “Thank you, Coach Kelly, for pushing me to be the best that I can be every single day,” Howard said, acknowledging the rigorous but rewarding coaching he received under Kelly’s tutelage.
Finally, Howard expressed his deep appreciation for Quarterbacks Coach Billy Fessler. “Billy Fessler is one of the guys who doesn’t get a lot of credit, but he did an unbelievable job developing me this year.” Fessler’s quiet, consistent work in honing Howard’s mechanics, decision-making, and mental toughness played a major role in his rise to prominence.
Ohio State’s Legacy: Buckeye Nation’s Impact
Perhaps one of the most touching aspects of Howard’s message was his gratitude to the Ohio State fanbase. Buckeye Nation is known for its unwavering support, and Howard made sure to recognize their role in his success.
He stated, “Thank you to Buckeye Nation for embracing me from day one. Thank you for taking me in and embracing me as one of your own. I will be a Buckeye for life. O-H!” Howard’s acknowledgment of the fanbase reflected not only the love and respect he felt from the Ohio State community but also his own deep connection to it. It was a relationship that transcended football and became personal—something Howard would carry with him for the rest of his life.
The connection between Howard and the Buckeye fans was evident on the field, where he became a fan favorite not just for his on-field success, but for his leadership, humility, and ability to perform under pressure. Howard’s statement echoed the sentiment felt by many fans: that his success was their success. For Ohio State, it wasn’t just about the national title; it was about the journey of one of their own, who arrived as a transfer and left as a hero.
A Season to Remember
The 2025 Ohio State football season will be remembered as one of the most thrilling in recent history, and Will Howard’s leadership played an enormous role in that success. Under his direction, the Buckeyes finished the season with a perfect 14-0 record and triumphed over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship game, 34-23.
Howard’s statistics for the season were outstanding: he completed 73.0% of his passes for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions. He also contributed on the ground, rushing for 226 yards and seven touchdowns. But perhaps even more impressive than his statistics was his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes were highest. In the national title game, Howard’s poise and precision were on full display as he led Ohio State to a hard-fought victory.
The national title win wasn’t just a culmination of Howard’s individual achievements—it was a testament to his leadership and his ability to inspire those around him. In his post-game interview, Howard attributed the victory to his faith, saying, “First and foremost, I gotta give the glory and the praise to my lord and savior Jesus Christ, man. I wouldn’t be here without Him.” This statement was more than just words; it was a reflection of the values that guided him throughout his career and the humility that made him a beloved figure at Ohio State.
The Future: What Lies Ahead for Will Howard?
As Will Howard prepares for the next chapter in his career, it’s clear that his impact on Ohio State will be felt for years to come. While many are speculating about his future in the NFL, Howard’s parting message underscores the importance of the journey rather than the destination. His experience at Ohio State was more than just a stepping stone to the professional ranks—it was a life-changing year that shaped him as a person and as an athlete.
For the Buckeyes, Howard’s departure marks the end of an era. His time in Columbus was short but transformative, and he will leave behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and faith. As for Howard, his message serves as a reminder that while football may be his career, the bonds and experiences forged during his time at Ohio State will last a lifetime.
In closing, Will Howard’s parting message is a heartfelt tribute to the people, coaches, and fans who made his journey at Ohio State unforgettable. His story is one of faith, perseverance, and growth—an inspiring narrative that will be remembered as a shining chapter in the history of Ohio State football.