Will Howard showcased his skills in the national championship game, leading Ohio State to a thrilling victory over Notre Dame. With a clear game plan, Howard executed his role with precision, making it look effortless as he connected with his offensive weapons.
Game-Changing Performance
Howard finished the game with an impressive stat line: 17-of-21 passing for 231 yards and two touchdowns. He also contributed on the ground, running 16 times for 57 yards. His standout target, Jeremiah Smith, a star freshman, had five catches for 88 yards, including the game-clinching catch that allowed Ohio State to run out the clock. This performance was just a glimpse of what Howard and his teammates are capable of.
Coaching Influence
After the game, Howard credited his coaches, Ryan Day and Chip Kelly, for simplifying his approach. “Coming into this season, you know, I think something that coach Day and coach Kelly … really emphasized to me was completions,” he explained. It was all about keeping the chains moving and staying on schedule. Howard recognized the importance of making the right decisions, even if it meant checking down or scrambling for yards.
Team Effort
Howard didn’t shy away from acknowledging the contributions of his teammates. “I got to give all the credit to my guys, my o-line, giving me time and those guys, the receivers. I mean, we got the best receiver room in the country, and it’s not even close,” he said, highlighting the depth of talent around him. The running backs also played a crucial role, with Quinshon Judkins rushing for 100 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries, while TreVeyon Henderson added 49 yards on 12 carries. This collective effort was key to their success.
Future Prospects
As Howard continues to shine, questions about his future in the NFL are starting to arise. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah weighed in on Howard’s potential, noting, “If he aces — like teams meet with him and fall in love with him and everything — then sure, who knows how high he can go.” However, Jeremiah also pointed out the importance of the supporting cast, mentioning that it’s difficult to separate a quarterback’s success from the talent around him. He referenced the examples of Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, who both had elite receivers that helped elevate their games.
Making the Right Choices
Howard’s ability to make smart decisions on the field has been a hallmark of his play. He understood the need to keep the offense moving, even when things didn’t go as planned. “It may not always be pretty, and you may have to go pick it up with your legs,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. This mindset has not only helped him thrive in pressure situations but has also instilled confidence in his teammates.
Looking Ahead
As Ohio State celebrates this championship victory, the focus will soon shift to the future. With Howard at the helm and a talented roster surrounding him, the Buckeyes are poised to make another run at the title next season. The chemistry between Howard and his receivers, particularly the young star Smith, will be something to watch.
In a sport where teamwork is essential, Howard’s leadership and the collective effort of the team will be crucial as they look to build on their success. The excitement surrounding Ohio State football is palpable, and fans are eager to see what the future holds.
The Road to Victory
Reflecting on the championship game, it’s clear that Ohio State’s strategy was well-executed. The combination of Howard’s efficient passing, the explosive plays from Smith, and the solid ground game provided by Judkins and Henderson created a balanced offensive attack that Notre Dame struggled to contain.
As the Buckeyes bask in their victory, one thing is certain: the foundation laid this season will serve them well as they aim for continued greatness in college football. With a talented roster and a clear vision, the future looks bright for Ohio State.
In the world of college football, where every game is a battle and every season can change a player’s trajectory, Howard and the Buckeyes have proven that with the right mindset, teamwork, and coaching, anything is possible. The journey may be just beginning, but the excitement is already building for what lies ahead.
