Ohio State quarterback Will Howard showcased his remarkable skills in the College Football Playoff this past Friday, leading the Buckeyes to a victory over Texas. With an impressive 289 yards and a touchdown, Howard is proving to be a pivotal player for Ohio State, throwing for an average of 306 yards per game in the CFP. His performance has the Buckeyes just one win away from clinching a national title, and fans are buzzing with excitement.
Will Howard’s Impressive Stats
ESPN college football analyst Greg McElroy weighed in on Howard’s performance during the Always College Football Podcast. He highlighted Howard’s efficiency, noting, “Looking at Will Howard’s numbers, 24 of 33, 289, about 8 yards an attempt, that’s exactly what you need.” This kind of performance is crucial in high-stakes games. Howard doesn’t need to throw for 400 yards to make an impact; he simply needs to manage the game effectively and capitalize on opportunities.
The Power of the Running Game
Ohio State’s success isn’t solely due to Howard’s arm. The Buckeyes have a dynamic running game that complements their passing attack. McElroy emphasized, “The way they’re running the football, they’re able to run the football really well right now.” With running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins combining for 19 touches and an astonishing 175 yards—averaging nearly 10 yards per carry—Ohio State’s offense is multifaceted and difficult to defend against.
In the Cotton Bowl against Texas, Henderson made a significant impact with six carries for 42 yards. His most memorable moment came just before halftime when he caught a screen pass and sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown, shifting the momentum in favor of Ohio State. This play was not just a highlight; it was a game-changer.
Judkins’ Contribution
Judkins also played a vital role in the Buckeyes’ offensive scheme. He contributed with nine carries for 36 yards and added three receptions for 22 yards. His versatility keeps defenses guessing and allows Ohio State to maintain a balanced attack. With such talent in the backfield, the Buckeyes can afford to let Howard manage the game rather than forcing him to carry the entire load.
Big Plays and Game Management
Despite star receiver Jeremiah Smith catching only one pass during the game, Ohio State still managed to pull away with a 14-point victory. This speaks volumes about the depth and talent on the roster. As McElroy pointed out, “With this offense, it’s all about big-play potential. It’s always going to be there.” The combination of Howard’s passing and the running backs’ explosive plays creates a perfect storm for opposing defenses.
McElroy added, “And you’re going to say, ‘Well, hang on, 175, 75 came on one play.’ That doesn’t matter.” The ability to make big plays is crucial, and Howard’s connection with his running backs allows for those explosive moments. The Buckeyes are not just a team that can grind out wins; they have the potential to strike quickly and decisively.
The Road Ahead
With Ohio State’s offense firing on all cylinders, the team is poised for a deep playoff run. The blend of Howard’s efficient passing, a strong running game, and a talented roster makes them a formidable opponent. As they prepare for the national title game, the Buckeyes will need to maintain this level of performance.
Will Howard’s ability to manage the game and make key plays will be crucial in their quest for the championship. The pressure is on, but with the talent surrounding him, he has shown that he can rise to the occasion.
In the end, Ohio State’s success in the College Football Playoff is a testament to their balanced offensive strategy. With a quarterback who can make the right decisions and a running game that can break open big plays, the Buckeyes are a team to watch as they chase their national title dreams. The excitement is palpable, and fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for this powerhouse program.
