Title: Ohio State QB Will Howard Calls Out Historic College Football Program

Introduction

In an unexpected turn of events, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard has made headlines for his candid remarks about his own program. A prominent figure in the Buckeyes’ quarterback battle heading into the 2025 season, Howard’s bold comments challenge some of the traditional assumptions surrounding the historic program. Known for its storied legacy in college football, Ohio State is a program that consistently competes at the highest level, but Howard’s words have sparked an intriguing conversation about its future and the pressure that comes with wearing the scarlet and gray.

This article will explore Howard’s remarks, the context behind them, and their potential impact on the Buckeyes as they prepare for the 2025 season. It will also dive into the broader implications for Ohio State’s quarterback competition and its ongoing quest for excellence in college football.

The Historic Ohio State Program: A Brief Overview

Ohio State University, home to one of the most storied football programs in college history, has a tradition that stretches back over a century. With multiple national championships, Big Ten titles, and a reputation for producing elite players, Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in the sport.

However, despite their success, the Buckeyes have experienced fluctuations in their performance, particularly in the post-Urban Meyer era. In 2025, head coach Ryan Day enters a critical season, with the pressure mounting to bring home another national championship.

The quarterback position has long been a focal point for the program, as it has produced some of the best players to ever grace college football, including Heisman winners like Troy Smith and more recently Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud. With such high expectations, it’s no surprise that a quarterback battle at Ohio State garners so much attention.

Will Howard’s Bold Comments

Will Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, has quickly become a major player in Ohio State’s quarterback competition. In an exclusive interview, Howard did not hold back in his critique of the program, calling out aspects of the team’s culture and preparation methods. Though his comments may have initially raised eyebrows, they shed light on some underlying tensions that could shape the program’s future.

The Competitive Culture at Ohio State

One of Howard’s central points revolved around the competitive nature of Ohio State football. While the program has always prided itself on a culture of competition, Howard suggested that the focus on individual accolades over team development may be undermining their ultimate goals. Howard pointed out that while Ohio State quarterbacks often put up impressive statistics, they are sometimes unable to translate that success into meaningful team achievements.

This assertion challenges the conventional view of Ohio State as a well-oiled machine where every position is filled with talent. Howard, perhaps realizing the magnitude of his comments, quickly clarified that his critique was not meant to disrespect the program’s history but rather to encourage a shift in mindset.

Pressure of Playing at Ohio State

Howard also expressed frustration with the immense pressure placed on players at a program of Ohio State’s stature. “There’s a sense that you’re expected to win, but sometimes that expectation can weigh you down,” Howard said. “The fans expect championships every year, and anything less is seen as a failure. That kind of pressure can be overwhelming.”

The pressure is certainly real—Ohio State has not only won numerous Big Ten titles but also made regular appearances in the College Football Playoff. The last time the Buckeyes fell short of competing for a national championship was in 2020 when they lost to Alabama in the CFP final. With a string of playoff appearances, including a controversial loss to Georgia in 2023, the expectation for success is always high.

The Quarterback Battle

Will Howard is in the midst of one of the most intense quarterback competitions in college football. As a transfer, Howard entered Ohio State with a lot to prove. He spent the previous seasons at Kansas State, where he had a successful stint, leading the Wildcats to several key wins and gaining significant attention as one of the top quarterbacks in the Big 12.

However, Ohio State has a deep pool of talent at the quarterback position. Kyle McCord, who led the Buckeyes in 2024, remains in the race, as does Devin Brown, a promising young talent who has shown flashes of brilliance. With all three quarterbacks battling for the starting job, tensions are high.

Howard’s comments about the program’s internal dynamics offer insight into how the competition might unfold. His remarks about the program’s tendency to place a premium on individual success suggest that Howard may be focused on more than just earning the starting role. He seems determined to challenge the established way of doing things and reshape the quarterback narrative at Ohio State.

Howard’s Leadership and Expectations

Another layer to Howard’s comments was his emphasis on leadership. He noted that while there are countless talented players at Ohio State, the team lacks true leadership in certain areas, especially at quarterback. Howard believes that the position requires more than just physical ability; it needs a leader who can galvanize the team and take charge on and off the field.

As a seasoned veteran, Howard is well-positioned to step into this leadership role. His experience in the Big 12 has provided him with the tools necessary to handle pressure, make crucial decisions, and lead his team through adversity. His comments suggest that he is not only interested in playing for Ohio State but also in shaping the future of the program.

Impact on Ohio State’s 2025 Season

Ohio State’s 2025 season will undoubtedly be one of the most scrutinized in recent history. After coming up just short in the College Football Playoff in 2024, the Buckeyes are eager to get back to the top. The quarterback position, as always, will be central to their success.

With Howard’s bold comments, the spotlight is now on the quarterbacks in ways that may not have been expected. The competition between Howard, McCord, and Brown will only intensify as the season approaches. However, Howard’s desire to take a leadership role might give him an edge in securing the starting job. His willingness to challenge the status quo and push for a change in the program’s culture could be exactly what the Buckeyes need to regain their status as a national title contender.

Fan Reaction and Media Scrutiny

As with any major college program, Ohio State fans have strong opinions about their team. Howard’s remarks have generated a significant amount of discussion both locally and nationally. While some fans appreciate Howard’s candidness and his willingness to speak out, others are concerned that his comments could disrupt the team’s chemistry.

The media has also latched onto Howard’s words, using them as fuel for speculation about Ohio State’s future. The program’s leadership, including head coach Ryan Day, will need to address these concerns and manage the narrative surrounding Howard’s comments. In the past, Ohio State has been known for its ability to weather storms and maintain focus, but Howard’s comments have thrown a new element into the mix.

The Road Ahead for Will Howard

Will Howard’s future at Ohio State is uncertain. Though he has proven himself as a capable quarterback, the competition remains fierce, and the pressure to perform is high. Howard’s comments have given fans and analysts alike something to chew on, but ultimately, it will be his on-field performance that determines his place in the Buckeyes’ starting lineup.

However, his leadership potential and his desire to challenge the program’s culture could have a lasting impact, regardless of whether he starts at quarterback. If Howard can continue to push for change while leading the team on the field, he may leave behind a legacy that goes far beyond his statistical accomplishments.

Will Howard’s call-out of Ohio State’s historic football program has added an intriguing layer to the 2025 quarterback competition. His comments offer a glimpse into the mindset of a player who is eager to reshape the narrative at one of college football’s most prestigious programs. With a mix of experience, ambition, and leadership, Howard is certainly a player to watch as the Buckeyes prepare for another crucial season.

How Ohio State handles the fallout from Howard’s comments—and how the quarterback battle plays out—could shape the future of the program for years to come. For now, all eyes are on Howard and his quest to bring Ohio State back to the top of college football.