Why Will Howard Join the Ohio State Buckeyes Instead of the Miami Hurricanes or USC Trojans?

Why Will Howard Will Join the Ohio State Buckeyes Instead of the Miami Hurricanes or USC Trojans

The recruiting process for high school football players is one of the most high-stakes and exciting events in the world of college sports. The drama, the tension, the national attention – it’s all part of the whirlwind that top recruits must navigate as they prepare to make their commitment to one of the nation’s premier college football programs. The decision can shape the trajectory of a player’s career, as well as the fortunes of the program they choose. For Will Howard, a five-star quarterback prospect, his recruitment is drawing significant attention, especially given the high-caliber programs vying for his commitment.

In a world where elite quarterbacks are consistently in demand, Howard’s skill set has made him one of the most coveted recruits in the 2025 class. After months of speculation, rumors, and analysis, it appears that Howard is set to make his decision and join the Ohio State Buckeyes over other contenders such as the Miami Hurricanes and the USC Trojans. While all three of these powerhouse programs have their strengths and unique appeals, Ohio State has emerged as the likely destination for Howard, and there are several key reasons for this.

1. The Quarterback Legacy at Ohio State

When it comes to developing elite quarterbacks, few programs in college football can match the Ohio State Buckeyes. Over the past decade, Ohio State has become one of the premier destinations for top-tier quarterbacks, thanks in large part to the program’s tradition of success and its ability to nurture quarterback talent. The Buckeyes have produced some of the most successful quarterbacks in recent NFL history, and for a young prospect like Howard, the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of these stars is a significant factor.

Ohio State has a quarterback factory reputation that is unmatched. In recent years, the Buckeyes have developed Dwayne Haskins, Justin Fields, and CJ Stroud, all of whom have made a seamless transition to the NFL. Haskins, Fields, and Stroud each enjoyed standout careers at Ohio State, and their success in college football has reinforced the notion that the Buckeyes can produce pro-ready quarterbacks. Ryan Day, Ohio State’s head coach, has built a program that is consistently at the top of college football, and his expertise in developing quarterbacks has been a major draw for top recruits like Howard.

For Howard, the opportunity to learn from Day and join a program with a proven track record of producing first-round NFL draft picks is an incredibly attractive proposition. Ohio State offers Howard the chance to showcase his skills in a high-powered offense, where his talents can be maximized and his draft stock elevated. With the success of past quarterbacks and the coaching pedigree of Ryan Day, the Buckeyes are undoubtedly in a strong position to convince Howard that their program is the right fit for him.

2. Offensive System and Scheme Fit

Ohio State has built its offensive system around dynamic, dual-threat quarterbacks who can make plays both in the air and on the ground. This style of offense aligns perfectly with Howard’s skill set. The Buckeyes’ high-tempo, spread offense places a significant emphasis on quick decision-making, precision passing, and exploiting mismatches in the defense. This type of system is ideal for a player like Howard, who thrives when given the freedom to read defenses and make plays with both his arm and his legs.

Howard is an exceptionally mobile quarterback, and his ability to extend plays and move out of the pocket gives him the ability to make throws on the run. Ohio State’s offense, which often features rollouts and designed quarterback runs, allows quarterbacks like Howard to be at their best. The Buckeyes have become known for their up-tempo, fast-paced offensive style that gives their quarterbacks the freedom to play to their strengths, making them a perfect fit for a player like Howard who excels in a high-octane system.

In addition to Howard’s mobility, his arm strength and accuracy make him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s vertical passing game. The Buckeyes routinely take deep shots down the field, and Howard’s ability to make those throws will allow him to thrive in the program. Ohio State has shown a preference for quarterbacks who can make big-time throws downfield, and Howard has proven that he has the arm strength and precision to excel in that regard. The opportunity to step into an offense that is tailored to his skill set makes Ohio State an incredibly appealing choice for Howard.

3. The Recruiting Class and Talent Around Him

One of the most important factors in Howard’s decision is the talent surrounding him at Ohio State. The Buckeyes consistently bring in top-tier talent at every position, and the 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be another strong one. Ohio State is set to add some of the nation’s top prospects at receiver, running back, and offensive line, creating an ideal environment for Howard to thrive.

Ohio State’s receiving corps is among the best in the country, consistently producing future NFL stars. The Buckeyes have a deep pool of talented wideouts, which is crucial for any quarterback looking to make an immediate impact. With top-tier talent on the outside, Howard will have the chance to throw to players who can separate from defenders and make plays at all levels of the field. The combination of talented receivers and Howard’s arm strength will create a dynamic partnership that could be lethal for years to come.

Furthermore, the offensive line at Ohio State is one of the most dominant units in the country. The Buckeyes have consistently produced some of the best offensive linemen in college football, and they have a history of protecting their quarterbacks and allowing them to make plays. A strong offensive line provides Howard with the time he needs to go through his progressions and make accurate throws, making it an incredibly important aspect of his decision. The stability and talent around him in Columbus create the perfect environment for a quarterback like Howard to succeed.

4. Competition and Immediate Playing Time

Another reason that Howard is likely to choose Ohio State over other programs is the competition level and the potential for immediate playing time. The Miami Hurricanes and USC Trojans both offer their own merits, but Howard is looking for an opportunity to play early and make a significant impact. At Ohio State, Howard is stepping into a program where there is likely to be an opening at the quarterback position in the near future.

While the Buckeyes currently have some talented quarterbacks on their roster, including Kyle McCord and Devin Brown, the competition at Ohio State is wide open. Both McCord and Brown will have graduated by the time Howard arrives on campus, and the starting position will likely be up for grabs. For Howard, the chance to come in and compete for the starting role as a true freshman is a major selling point. He will have the opportunity to start immediately and make his mark on the program from day one.

In contrast, the Miami Hurricanes have a more established quarterback room with Tyler Van Dyke, who is expected to be the starter for the next few seasons. Van Dyke’s presence in Miami could limit Howard’s chances of stepping in and starting right away, especially if Van Dyke performs well in the coming years. Similarly, the USC Trojans, while an appealing destination, have Caleb Williams at the helm for another year, further complicating Howard’s chances of taking over the starting role in the short term.

Ohio State’s relatively open quarterback competition, combined with the chance to compete in a high-level program, provides Howard with the opportunity to get on the field quickly and start his college career on the right track.

5. The Ohio State Brand and National Exposure

Finally, Ohio State’s national brand and constant presence on the big stage are hard to ignore. The Buckeyes are annually in the conversation for a national championship, and they are a perennial contender in the Big Ten and college football playoffs. The opportunity to play for a program with a national following, a massive fan base, and the exposure that comes with playing in major bowl games and the playoffs is a major draw for top recruits.

For Howard, the exposure that Ohio State provides could be instrumental in his development and potential NFL career. Playing for a team that consistently plays in front of large crowds and national television audiences means that Howard will have the platform to showcase his skills to NFL scouts. Ohio State’s success on the field and its ability to produce NFL-caliber talent makes it an ideal location for a player like Howard to take the next step in his career.