Will Howard, the quarterback who led Ohio State to a national championship in the 2024-25 season, has become a household name in college football. His journey from Kansas State to Columbus, Ohio, showcases resilience, leadership, and remarkable statistical growth. This article explores Howard’s 2024-25 season stats, his career trajectory, and his impact on the field. Moreover, it delves into his NFL draft prospects and what makes him a standout athlete. With fresh insights and detailed analysis, let’s unpack the numbers that define Will Howard’s incredible year.
From Kansas State to Ohio State: Howard’s Rise to Fame
Early Days at Kansas State
Will Howard began his college football career at Kansas State in 2020. As a freshman, he stepped in for an injured starter, Skylar Thompson, and showed promise. He threw for 1,178 yards and eight touchdowns in nine games, proving he could handle high-pressure situations. However, his 2021 season saw him relegated to a backup role, limiting his playing time. Despite this setback, Howard’s determination never wavered. In 2022, he regained the starting position after another injury to the incumbent quarterback, Adrian Martinez. That year, he led Kansas State to a Big 12 championship, throwing for 2,115 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Howard’s 2023 season at Kansas State marked a significant leap. He amassed 2,643 passing yards, 24 passing touchdowns, and nine rushing touchdowns. His ability to spread the ball to multiple receivers and make plays with his legs caught the attention of scouts. Nevertheless, Howard sought a bigger stage to showcase his talents. Consequently, he entered the transfer portal and committed to Ohio State for the 2024 season, a decision that would redefine his career.
The Transfer to Ohio State
Howard’s move to Ohio State in January 2024 was a bold step. The Buckeyes, known for their high-octane offense, needed a quarterback to replace Kyle McCord. Howard, with his experience and dual-threat capabilities, fit the bill perfectly. He quickly adapted to the new system, earning the starting role by August 2024. His leadership and work ethic impressed coaches and teammates alike. Furthermore, Ohio State’s talented roster, including wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith, provided Howard with the tools to elevate his game. This transition set the stage for a historic season.
Breaking Down Will Howard’s 2024-25 Season Stats
Passing Excellence
Howard’s 2024-25 season with Ohio State was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for 4,010 yards, completing 73% of his passes, which ranked second nationally. His 35 passing touchdowns placed him fourth in the NCAA, while his 175.25 passer rating stood third overall. These numbers reflect Howard’s precision and ability to exploit defenses. For instance, in the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship against Notre Dame, he completed 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns, earning Offensive MVP honors.
Moreover, Howard’s deep-ball accuracy improved significantly. He led his quarterback class with a 36% big-time throw rate on passes over 20 yards, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). His 96.3 deep-pass grade underscored his ability to connect on long throws. Additionally, Howard excelled against the blitz, completing 73% of his passes under pressure. This poise helped Ohio State maintain offensive momentum, even in high-stakes games.
Rushing Prowess
Beyond his passing, Howard’s mobility added another dimension to his game. He rushed for 613 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, averaging 38.3 yards per game. His 6’4”, 236-pound frame allowed him to power through defenders, making him a threat in short-yardage situations. Notably, Howard’s 57-yard rushing performance in the CFP National Championship showcased his ability to extend plays. His career-long 80-yard rush against TCU in 2020 and a 71-yard touchdown run against Texas in 2021 highlight his consistent running ability.
Furthermore, Howard’s athleticism helped him avoid sacks. He was sacked on only 12.2% of pressures, ranking second in his draft class. This knack for escaping danger preserved drives and minimized negative plays. Consequently, Ohio State’s offense ranked among the nation’s best, averaging 34.6 points per game.
Total Offense and Impact
When combining passing and rushing, Howard accounted for 4,623 yards of total offense and 42 total touchdowns. His 10 interceptions, while not ideal, were a minor blemish on an otherwise dominant season. Howard’s ability to distribute the ball to playmakers like Egbuka, Smith, and running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins maximized Ohio State’s offensive potential. As a result, the Buckeyes finished with a 14-2 record, culminating in a national championship victory on January 20, 2025.
Game-by-Game Highlights
Regular Season Standouts
Howard’s consistency shone throughout the 2024 regular season. Against Michigan, he threw for 289 yards and three touchdowns, dismantling their vaunted defense. In a matchup against Penn State, he completed 25 of 33 passes for 312 yards and two scores, showcasing his ability to handle hostile environments. Additionally, his 327-yard, four-touchdown performance against Texas in 2023 (while at Kansas State) carried over into his Ohio State tenure, where he maintained high output against top-tier opponents.
Playoff Dominance
The CFP playoffs were Howard’s proving ground. In the semifinals at the Cotton Bowl, he threw for 348 yards and three touchdowns, earning Offensive MVP honors. His 13 consecutive completions in the National Championship set a CFP record, as did his 204.8 passer rating. These performances silenced doubters who questioned whether Howard was a product of Ohio State’s system. Instead, he demonstrated leadership and clutch playmaking, cementing his legacy as a Buckeye.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
What Makes Howard Special
Howard’s strengths are numerous. His prototypical size (6’4”, 236 pounds) and quick release make him an attractive NFL prospect. He throws with elite touch, particularly on downfield passes, dropping balls into tight windows with precision. Additionally, his pocket presence allows him to slide and avoid pressure while keeping his eyes downfield. Howard’s leadership also stands out. Coaches praise his ability to rally teammates, as evidenced by his role in Ohio State’s championship run.
Moreover, Howard’s experience—44 career starts across five seasons—gives him an edge over younger prospects. He reads defenses well, often anticipating routes and throwing receivers open. His 73.2% adjusted completion rate under pressure ranks second in the 2025 draft class, per PFF. These traits suggest Howard can transition to the NFL as a reliable backup or potential spot-starter.
Areas to Refine
Despite his success, Howard has room to grow. His arm strength, while adequate, lacks the elite zip needed to drive balls into tight NFL windows. This limitation could pose challenges against faster, more physical defenses. Furthermore, Howard occasionally predetermines throws, leading to a 3.3% turnover-worthy play rate rate on quick throws, per PFF. Improving his progression reads and reducing forced passes will be critical for his NFL success.
Additionally, Howard’s age (24 in September 2025) may concern some scouts, as he’s older than many draft prospects. However, his experience mitigates this concern, and his championship pedigree outweighs minor drawbacks.
NFL Draft Outlook
Draft Projections
Howard’s 2024-25 season propelled him into the NFL draft conversation. Analysts project him as a fourth- to sixth-round pick, with some mocks slotting him as high as the fifth round (e.g., Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per Pro Football Network). His performance at the NFL Combine—31.5” vertical, 9’4” broad jump, and 8.74 Relative Athletic Score—bolstered his stock. The Pittsburgh Steelers selected him in the sixth round (185th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, a value pick given his stats and leadership.
Scouts compare Howard to quarterbacks like Blake Bortles or Gardner Minshew—serviceable starters or high-end backups. Teams like the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, and Cleveland Browns could benefit from his skills. While not a franchise quarterback, Howard’s intangibles and clutch performances make him a low-risk, high-reward prospect.
Fantasy Football Potential
In fantasy football, Howard’s draft status limits his immediate value. As a backup or developmental quarterback, he’s unlikely to start in 2025. However, landing with a team needing a bridge starter could boost his stock. Fantasy analysts suggest monitoring his situation, as his dual-threat ability could yield points in deeper leagues.
Legacy at Ohio State and Beyond
Howard’s one-year stint at Ohio State left an indelible mark. He led the Buckeyes to their first national title since 2014, earning Third-Team All-Big Ten honors and multiple MVP awards. His 9,994 career passing yards, 85 passing touchdowns, and 1,147 rushing yards rank among the best in both Kansas State and Ohio State history. Off the field, Howard’s academic achievements—graduating with an accounting degree and earning Academic All-Big 12 honors—highlight his work ethic.
UConn As he transitions to the NFL, Howard carries a reputation as a winner. His journey from a three-star recruit to a national champion inspires young athletes. Whether he becomes a starter or a career backup, Howard’s 2024-25 season will remain a testament to perseverance and talent.
FAQs
1. What were Will Howard’s key stats in the 2024-25 season?
The Witch Will Howard threw for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, completing 73% of his passes. He also rushed for 613 yards and seven touchdowns. His 175.25 passer rating ranked third nationally, and he led Ohio State to a 14-2 record and a national championship.
2. How did Howard perform in the College Football Playoff?
Jeffery Simmons Howard excelled in the CFP, throwing for 1,150 yards, eight touchdowns, and two interceptions across three games. He set a CFP championship record with 13 consecutive completions and a 204.8 passer rating, earning Offensive MVP honors in both the Cotton Bowl and National Championship.
3. Why did Howard transfer from Kansas State to Ohio State?
The Big Board Howard sought a bigger platform to showcase his skills and compete for a national title. Ohio State’s talented roster and high-powered offense offered an ideal fit. His transfer paid off, as he led the Buckeyes to a championship in his lone season.
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