The Ohio State Buckeyes are making waves in the NCAAF this season, and a significant part of their success can be attributed to the remarkable performance of quarterback Will Howard. With an impressive 8-1 record, the Buckeyes are not just participating; they are contenders for the championship, and Howard’s evolution as a player has been a key factor in this journey.
Since transferring from Kansas State, Howard has transformed his game in ways that are hard to ignore. His completion percentage has skyrocketed from 58.8% at Kansas State to an astonishing 74% with the Buckeyes. This leap in efficiency is not just a statistic; it reflects a deeper understanding of the game and a more strategic approach to quarterbacking.
One of the standout aspects of Howard’s performance has been his ability to make smart decisions on the field. In a recent press interview, he shared insights into his growth and the pivotal role of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly in his development. “I think a lot of it is coaching and the way that I’ve been taught here,” Howard explained. “Something Coach Kelly has emphasized with me since, really, since I got here was just completions and how many completions are out there on the field that it’s just easy and just take them.”
Howard’s newfound approach has led to a significant reduction in turnovers. This season, he has thrown only five interceptions in nine games, a marked improvement compared to the ten interceptions he threw in twelve games at Kansas State. This discipline has not only benefited Howard but has also contributed to the overall success of the Buckeyes.
Howard’s obsession with perfecting his throw
Since joining Ohio State, Howard has dedicated himself to refining his mechanics, footwork, and decision-making processes. His commitment to improvement is evident in his training regimen. “Something we emphasized in preseason training camp was, I was shooting for an 80 percent completion percentage every single day. That was my goal,” Howard stated. “And I only achieved it a couple of times and it’s hard. But I think that helped me so much.”
This relentless pursuit of excellence has made Howard a formidable opponent for defenses. “Completions are devastating to a defense,” he added, highlighting the importance of maintaining possession and moving the chains. His ability to check down and find open receivers has been crucial in keeping drives alive and putting points on the board.
The differences from his time at Kansas State
Reflecting on his time at Kansas State, Howard noted the differences in his approach to the game. “I feel like a lot of times in my career at Kansas State, I was trying to force things in windows and I didn’t really need to,” he admitted. This shift in mindset has allowed him to take what the defense gives him, leading to more productive plays.
Howard’s ability to utilize checkdowns has been a game-changer. “There’s checkdowns all over the field, man. And getting the ball to Trey [Henderson] or Gee [Scott Jr.] or [Quinshon Judkins] in the flat and letting them run for six to 12 yards — I mean, there was a play on Saturday where I may have missed [Emeka Egbuka] down the middle on one play, but I checked it down to Q and we get six yards out of it. And it’s like, well, we’re in 2nd-and-4 and that’s still a pretty good position to be in. There’s just completions all over the field,” he explained.
Howard’s evolution as a quarterback is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding the game at a deeper level. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has made him a valuable asset to the Buckeyes. With each game, he continues to demonstrate that he is not just a player, but a leader on the field.
The impact of Chip Kelly
The influence of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly cannot be overstated. Under Kelly’s guidance, Howard has flourished. The coaching staff has instilled a philosophy that emphasizes efficiency and strategic play, allowing Howard to thrive. His relationship with Kelly has been pivotal in shaping his approach to the game, providing him with the tools and confidence needed to succeed.
The Buckeyes’ offensive strategy has been tailored to maximize Howard’s strengths, and it shows. The combination of a dynamic offense and Howard’s improved performance has made Ohio State a force to be reckoned with in college football this season. As they continue to push toward the playoffs, Howard’s growth will be crucial in their pursuit of a national title.
In a season filled with promise and potential, Will Howard stands out as a beacon of excellence for the Ohio State Buckeyes. With his impressive statistics, strategic mindset, and the invaluable support of his coaching staff, he is not just playing the game; he is redefining what it means to be a quarterback in college football. As the season unfolds, fans can only anticipate what more this talented athlete will bring to the field.
