Will Howard at Ohio State: A QB Position Analysis

Will Howard's transfer to Ohio State has injected a significant amount of intrigue into the Buckeyes' quarterback competition. This analysis delves into Howard's strengths, weaknesses, and his potential impact on the team, exploring his fit within Ohio State's offensive scheme and the broader implications for the upcoming season.

Howard's Background: From Kansas State to Columbus

Before arriving in Columbus, Will Howard showcased his talent at Kansas State, where he displayed flashes of brilliance amidst a challenging situation. While not a starter for the majority of his time, his performances hinted at a capable quarterback with room for significant growth. Understanding his journey is key to assessing his prospects at Ohio State.

Strengths:

• Arm Strength: Howard possesses a strong arm, capable of making all the throws necessary in a modern college offense. This is a valuable asset in the Big Ten, where defenses often require deep throws to stretch the field.
• Athleticism: While not a dual-threat quarterback in the mold of a Jalen Hurts, Howard displays adequate mobility to extend plays and escape pressure. This scrambling ability can be crucial for buying time and creating opportunities downfield.
• Game Experience: Despite not being a full-time starter, Howard has experienced game-day pressure and performed under the bright lights. This experience, even in limited doses, can be invaluable in navigating the high-stakes environment of college football.
• High Football IQ: Reports suggest Howard is a quick study with a solid grasp of offensive concepts. This intellectual aptitude allows him to adapt to different schemes and learn quickly from coaching.

Weaknesses:

• Consistency: This is perhaps Howard's biggest hurdle. He's demonstrated inconsistency in his play, with periods of strong performance followed by struggles. This needs to be addressed for him to become a reliable starter.
• Accuracy: While possessing a strong arm, improving his accuracy, particularly on intermediate throws, remains a key focus for development.
• Decision-Making: In certain instances, Howard has struggled with decision-making, leading to turnovers. Developing better judgment under pressure is crucial for his long-term success.

Howard's Fit within Ohio State's Offense

Ohio State's offensive scheme, known for its explosive passing game, presents both opportunities and challenges for Howard. His arm strength aligns perfectly with the deep-ball passing concepts, but his accuracy and decision-making will need to reach a high level to thrive in this system. The coaching staff's expertise should provide him with the resources to improve these areas. The competition within the quarterback room will certainly push him to elevate his game.

The QB Competition and Potential Impact

The Ohio State quarterback room is fiercely competitive. Howard will be vying for playing time against established quarterbacks and talented newcomers. His ultimate impact will depend on his ability to quickly adapt to the system, refine his weaknesses, and consistently demonstrate his strengths in practice and games.

Conclusion: A Wild Card with Potential

Will Howard represents a wild card in the Ohio State quarterback competition. His talent is undeniable, but his consistency and decision-making will determine his ultimate success. If he can address his weaknesses and capitalize on his strengths, he could be a valuable asset to the Buckeyes. However, the competition will be fierce, and only time will tell if he can secure a starting role and significantly impact the team's performance. The upcoming season will be crucial in revealing his true potential. Keep an eye on how he performs in spring practices and fall camp for more clues.