Will Howard: Penn State believes that their rivals are Ohio State, but Ohio State doesn’t view it that way.

In the world of college football, few narratives are as compelling as that of Will Howard, a quarterback whose journey from overlooked recruit to national champion encapsulates themes of perseverance, redemption, and the complexities of rivalries. Howard’s path took a significant turn when he transferred from Kansas State to Ohio State for the 2024 season, leading the Buckeyes to their first national championship since 2014. However, his most poignant chapter unfolded on November 2, 2024, when he faced his hometown team, Penn State, in a high-stakes Big Ten showdown.

Will Howard hails from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia, and grew up as an ardent Penn State fan. He dreamed of donning the Nittany Lions’ blue and white, but despite his aspirations, Penn State never extended a scholarship offer. Rated as a three-star prospect, Howard’s recruitment was lukewarm at best, leading him to sign with Kansas State. Reflecting on this, Howard remarked, “They didn’t think I was good enough,” highlighting the sting of rejection that fueled his determination.

At Kansas State, Howard’s career was marked by flashes of brilliance and bouts with inconsistency, often hindered by injuries. Nevertheless, he showcased enough potential to attract attention from major programs. In 2024, he transferred to Ohio State, seeking a fresh start and the opportunity to prove his worth on a larger stage.

The highly anticipated matchup between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 3 Penn State on November 2, 2024, was more than just a game for Howard—it was a chance to confront the program that had once deemed him unworthy. The contest was set in Beaver Stadium, in front of a record crowd of 111,030 fans, underscoring the magnitude of the occasion.

The game began unfavorably for Howard and the Buckeyes. On his first pass attempt, Howard threw a pick-six, placing Ohio State in an early 10-point deficit. Later, he fumbled before crossing the goal line, costing the Buckeyes another potential score. Despite these setbacks, Howard remained composed, throwing for 182 yards and two touchdowns to Emeka Egbuka and Brandon Inniss. He also contributed 24 rushing yards, including a crucial seven-yard option run that sealed the game.

Ohio State’s 20–13 victory marked their eighth consecutive win over Penn State, a streak that has contributed to the perception of the Nittany Lions as a lesser rival to the Buckeyes. Penn State head coach James Franklin, now 1–10 against Ohio State, faced intense scrutiny following the loss, with fans expressing their discontent vocally. Franklin acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, “I own it all,” and lamented the missed opportunities, particularly the inability to capitalize on two possessions inside the five-yard line without scoring.

For Howard, the victory was deeply personal. It wasn’t merely about the win but about validation—the chance to prove to Penn State that they had underestimated him. He expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I guess we’ll see next week if I was [good enough],” reflecting the culmination of years of ambition and perceived slight.

This game highlighted the nuanced nature of rivalries in college football. While Penn State may view Ohio State as a primary adversary, the feeling isn’t mutual. Ohio State’s dominance in recent years has shifted the dynamic, with the Buckeyes often treating the Nittany Lions as a stepping stone rather than a formidable rival. This sentiment was echoed by Franklin, who remarked that Penn State has been treated as “a little brother” in the rivalry.

Howard’s journey and the ensuing game serve as a microcosm of broader themes in college athletics. They underscore the significance of recruitment decisions, the long-lasting impact of perceived slights, and the personal narratives that athletes carry with them. For Howard, the game against Penn State was more than a victory—it was a statement, a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed on his terms.

The dynamics of the Ohio State–Penn State rivalry continue to evolve, influenced by factors such as recruitment, coaching changes, and shifts in team performance. While Penn State may still harbor aspirations of reclaiming dominance, Ohio State’s recent successes have redefined the rivalry’s landscape. As for Howard, his story serves as an inspiration to countless athletes who face rejection and doubt, illustrating that perseverance and self-belief can lead to redemption and triumph.