Will Howard: From Kansas State to Ohio State and the 2025 National Championship
The path to greatness in college football is rarely linear. It often involves unexpected twists, transitions, and moments of self-discovery. Few players have embodied this more than Will Howard, the quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Born on September 24, 2001, Howard’s journey from a promising start at Kansas State to leading Ohio State to a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2025 is a story of resilience, growth, and ambition.
Early Years and Arrival at Kansas State
Will Howard was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where his athletic abilities were evident from a young age. Playing football throughout his childhood, Howard was always known for his strong arm, football IQ, and competitive nature. He attended Manheim Township High School, where he emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the state. By the time he graduated, Howard had already committed to play college football at Kansas State University, a program known for its gritty and hard-nosed style of play.
At Kansas State, Howard quickly became a key figure in the team’s offense. His raw talent and leadership were undeniable, but the transition to college football wasn’t easy. As a freshman, Howard had to learn the intricacies of the game at a higher level, adjusting to the speed and intensity of Division I football. Although the Wildcats had a strong tradition under head coach Chris Klieman, Howard’s early years were marked by inconsistency. He had flashes of brilliance but struggled at times with accuracy and decision-making.
Despite the ups and downs, Howard’s time at Kansas State was instrumental in his development as a player. Over the course of his first three years, Howard honed his skills, learning from both his successes and failures. By his junior year, he had become the undisputed starter and had a breakout season in 2023. His performance in the Big 12 Conference caught the attention of NFL scouts, but Howard wasn’t quite ready to declare for the draft. He still had unfinished business in college football.
The Transfer to Ohio State: A Fresh Start
In the offseason following his junior year at Kansas State, Will Howard made a bold decision that would change the course of his college career: he transferred to Ohio State University. The Buckeyes, under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, had become one of the premier programs in the country. With a rich history of producing top-tier quarterbacks—such as Dwayne Haskins, Justin Fields, and C.J. Stroud—Ohio State represented an opportunity for Howard to take his game to the next level.
The decision to leave Kansas State was not one that Howard made lightly. He had grown close to his teammates and coaches in Manhattan, and the move to Ohio State would involve not only a change in scenery but also a new offensive system, new coaches, and new expectations. However, Howard was driven by the desire to challenge himself and compete for championships.
Upon arriving in Columbus, Ohio, Howard was greeted with excitement and anticipation. Ohio State fans were eager to see what he could bring to the table, and Howard was determined to prove that he had the talent and leadership qualities to succeed at one of the most storied programs in the nation. The quarterback competition that year would be fierce, as Howard had to compete with several highly-touted quarterbacks, including the highly regarded sophomore, Kyle McCord.
The 2024 Season: Adjusting to New Heights
The 2024 season marked a new chapter in Will Howard’s football journey. From the start of the season, it was clear that Howard had found a comfortable rhythm within Ohio State’s dynamic offense. He was a perfect fit for the Buckeyes’ fast-paced, high-flying attack. His arm strength, ability to read defenses, and mobility in the pocket were on full display as he helped Ohio State navigate their regular season.
The Buckeyes entered the 2024 season with high expectations, but the road was far from smooth. The competition in the Big Ten Conference, particularly from teams like Michigan and Penn State, was fierce, and Ohio State had to dig deep to stay atop the standings. Howard’s ability to remain calm under pressure became one of his defining traits, especially during several critical games where his clutch performances led the Buckeyes to victory.
One of the standout moments of the season came in Ohio State’s rivalry game against Michigan. In a game that many considered a “must-win,” Howard played the game of his life, throwing for 350 yards and four touchdowns in a thrilling 38-35 victory. The win solidified his position as the starter and pushed Ohio State into the Big Ten Championship Game against a strong Iowa team.
In the Big Ten Championship Game, Howard’s leadership was once again evident. Despite Iowa’s tough defense, Howard orchestrated a commanding offensive display, leading the Buckeyes to a 45-17 victory and securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).
The 2024 College Football Playoff was set to be one of the most highly anticipated tournaments in recent memory. Ohio State was one of the top seeds, but they had to face some stiff competition, including the likes of Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson. Will Howard was no stranger to high-pressure situations, and he quickly proved that he was capable of stepping up when it mattered most.
The College Football Playoff National Championship Run
The road to the national title began with a matchup against Alabama in the semifinal. The game was a true test of Ohio State’s offensive prowess, with the Buckeyes facing one of the toughest defenses in the country. Howard’s experience in big games came in handy, as he guided Ohio State to a dominant 38-24 victory. His leadership in the second half, particularly in a pivotal drive where he threw two touchdown passes, was key to sealing the win.
Next came the national championship game, where Ohio State would face off against defending champions Georgia. The Bulldogs, led by a tough defense and an efficient offense, were looking to repeat as national champions. The stage was set for a dramatic showdown, with Will Howard facing the biggest challenge of his career.
In the national championship game, Howard was unflappable. The Bulldogs’ defense threw everything they could at him, but Howard’s poise under pressure was evident. He completed 29 of 36 passes for 380 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Buckeyes to a thrilling 41-38 victory. It was a game for the ages, filled with momentum swings, big plays, and incredible performances from both teams.
Howard’s performance in the national title game solidified his place in Ohio State football history. He was named the game’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his stellar play, and the victory marked the culmination of his incredible journey from Kansas State to Ohio State. In a matter of one season, Howard had transformed into one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in college football, and he had led Ohio State to its first national championship in years.
The Legacy of Will Howard
As the confetti rained down in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on that fateful night in January 2025, Will Howard’s legacy was cemented in college football history. His journey from Kansas State to Ohio State, and ultimately to the pinnacle of college football, was a testament to his perseverance, growth, and desire to compete at the highest level.
Howard’s success also highlighted the role of mentorship in his development. At Kansas State, he had been under the guidance of his coaches, who helped him develop as a player. At Ohio State, he benefited from working with one of the brightest offensive minds in college football, Ryan Day. Howard also had the benefit of being surrounded by a team of elite athletes, each of whom pushed him to elevate his game.
But perhaps the most important lesson Howard learned throughout his career was the importance of resilience. The challenges he faced at Kansas State, the tough competition at Ohio State, and the pressure of the College Football Playoff were all opportunities for Howard to demonstrate his growth and leadership. In the end, his journey showed that success in college football is not just about raw talent—it’s about the willingness to learn, improve, and rise to the occasion when the lights shine the brightest.
Looking Ahead
As Will Howard prepares for the next chapter of his career, the future is bright. The NFL is sure to take notice of his performance in the College Football Playoff and National Championship Game, and many expect him to be a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, for Howard, the lessons learned in college will remain with him, shaping him as both a player and a person for years to come.
Ohio State’s 2025 national championship was a crowning achievement for Howard and the Buckeyes. It marked the culmination of a remarkable journey, from the fields of Kansas State to the bright lights of Ohio State and the ultimate prize in college football. Will Howard’s name will forever be etched in the annals of Ohio State football, and his story will serve as an inspiration to future generations of players chasing their dreams on the gridiron.