The regular season game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Oregon Ducks was one of the highlights of the 2024 college football season. Yet, for Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard, it turned into a haunting experience that still lingers in his mind. As he prepares for the upcoming Rose Bowl against the same Oregon team, the memories of that fateful game are hard to shake off.
Facing the Past: Will Howard’s Nightmare
“Man, I still have nightmares about that play,” Howard admitted. “I still run it over in my head. How could I have — what could I have done better?” The final play of that game has become a recurring theme in his thoughts. Ohio State lost a heartbreaker to Oregon with a score of 32-31, and Howard’s decision to scramble and slide as time expired left him with a sense of unfinished business.
In the closing moments of that game, the Buckeyes had a real shot at victory. They could have set up for a long field goal attempt or even a Hail Mary pass. But Howard’s miscalculation cost them dearly. “You don’t get second chances a lot in life. That just doesn’t happen,” he reflected. “So, I’m thankful that we even get a chance to go out there and play these guys again.”
A Chance for Redemption
Now, as the Buckeyes gear up for the Rose Bowl, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This matchup serves not only as a rematch but also as a quarterfinal for the College Football Playoff. Both teams are on the path to potentially claiming the national championship, and Howard is eager to right the wrongs of the past.
“It really has nothing to do with me, man. It’s about this team and the way that we lost that game. It still hurts. It still hurts all of us,” Howard said, emphasizing the collective pain felt by his teammates. The Buckeyes are not just looking to win; they want to exorcise the demons of that previous encounter. “We’re excited for another crack at these guys. We’ll keep it in the back of our heads. It’s a new game. We’re both very different teams than we were back then, but that definitely hasn’t left my head.”
Highlighting the Game’s Controversies
The dramatic finish of that earlier game was not just about Howard’s decision-making. The ending was also marred by controversy. Oregon head coach Dan Lanning was accused of manipulating the clock by taking a too many men on the field penalty, which allowed the Ducks to run down the clock. This tactic raised eyebrows and led to rule changes aimed at preventing similar situations in the future.
Such moments add another layer of intensity to the upcoming Rose Bowl. Will Howard and the Buckeyes are not just looking to avenge a loss; they’re also seeking to reclaim their honor against a team that employed questionable tactics to secure victory.
Will Howard’s Performance: A Mixed Bag
Despite the heartbreak, it’s important to recognize that Howard had a commendable performance in that game. He completed 28 of 35 passes for 326 yards and tossed two touchdowns. He even rushed for 13 yards and added another touchdown to his name. Yet, those impressive stats are overshadowed by the final play that left him with regrets.
“Every player has moments they wish they could change,” Howard said. “But this is college football, and you learn from them. You grow. I’m ready to take what I’ve learned and apply it to this next game.”
The Road Ahead: Buckeyes vs. Ducks
As the Buckeyes prepare for their rematch against the Ducks, excitement is palpable. Fans are eager to see how Howard will respond under pressure, especially after such a tumultuous experience. Will he rise to the occasion and lead Ohio State to victory? Or will the weight of past mistakes continue to haunt him?
This game is not just about individual redemption; it’s about team spirit and resilience. The Buckeyes have a chance to show that they are more than just a team that faltered in a crucial moment. They have the opportunity to demonstrate growth, unity, and the will to win.
In college football, every game is a new chapter, and the Rose Bowl promises to be an electrifying showdown. Both teams have evolved since their last encounter, and the anticipation is building. Will Howard is ready to take the field, armed with lessons learned and a burning desire to make things right.
As fans gear up for this thrilling matchup, one thing is clear: college football is about more than just the scores; it’s about the stories, the rivalries, and the passion that fuels each player on the field. The Rose Bowl will not only be a battle for a spot in the playoffs but also a chance for Will Howard and the Buckeyes to rewrite their narrative against the Oregon Ducks. The stage is set, and the excitement is palpable. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell!
