Will Howard of Ohio State Takes Direct Aim at Notre Dame’s quarterback

Will Howard of Ohio State Takes Direct Aim at Notre Dame’s Quarterback: A Breakdown of Key Matchup in the 2025 CFP National Championship

As the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship approaches, the focus shifts to one of the most crucial matchups of the game: Ohio State’s defense, led by star pass rusher Will Howard, taking on Notre Dame’s experienced quarterback, Sam Hartman. In a high-stakes game with so much on the line, the battle between Howard, one of the top defensive players in the country, and Hartman, a seasoned veteran who has seen it all, will be a key storyline.

Hartman, a graduate transfer from Wake Forest, has brought leadership and consistency to the Notre Dame offense, but Howard and the Buckeyes’ defense are determined to make life difficult for the Irish signal-caller. This matchup is set to be one of the most pivotal factors in determining the outcome of the national title game. Will Howard be able to disrupt Hartman’s rhythm, or will the Notre Dame quarterback remain calm under pressure and guide his team to a championship?

Will Howard: Ohio State’s Defensive Force

Will Howard has emerged as one of the most dominant pass rushers in college football this season. The 6’4″, 255-pound defensive end has been a force for Ohio State, creating havoc in opposing backfields with his ability to rush the passer, disrupt plays, and apply pressure. Howard has been a key component of Ohio State’s defense, and his ability to put pressure on the opposing quarterback has been one of the defining features of the Buckeyes’ defensive success in 2025.

Why Howard is Key: As a pass rusher, Howard has the kind of speed and power that can overwhelm offensive linemen. His ability to get around the edge and collapse the pocket makes him a constant threat. Against a quarterback like Sam Hartman, who thrives when given time to read the defense and make his throws, Howard’s ability to pressure him early and often will be a major key to Ohio State’s defensive game plan.

Howard’s impact goes beyond just sacks and pressure. He is known for forcing turnovers, whether through forced fumbles or by getting in the quarterback’s face and creating rushed throws. In a game as important as the CFP National Championship, turning the ball over can completely shift the momentum, and Howard will look to exploit any weakness in Hartman’s protection.

Sam Hartman: Notre Dame’s Veteran Quarterback

Sam Hartman’s journey to Notre Dame has been long and storied. After five years as the starting quarterback at Wake Forest, Hartman transferred to Notre Dame, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven ability to perform on the big stage. Hartman’s greatest strength is his poise; he rarely gets rattled, even in high-pressure situations. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and lead his offense has made him one of the most respected quarterbacks in college football.

Why Hartman is Key: Hartman’s leadership and calm demeanor are two key attributes that have helped guide Notre Dame to the national championship game. He has shown time and again that he can make all the necessary throws, from deep shots down the field to quick, short passes. His ability to make quick reads and adjust to what the defense gives him will be crucial in dealing with Ohio State’s aggressive pass rush. He is particularly effective when he can settle into a rhythm and get the ball out quickly, and Howard will be tasked with preventing that from happening.

Another factor that plays into Hartman’s favor is his experience in big games. Hartman has been through his fair share of pressure-packed moments, and he has a reputation for keeping his cool even when the stakes are high. In the 2025 CFP National Championship, his ability to stay composed under the onslaught of Howard’s pass rush will determine whether he can continue to operate the offense efficiently or if he’ll fall victim to Ohio State’s defensive line.

Ohio State’s Defensive Strategy: Attack the Pocket

Ohio State’s defensive game plan will likely center around one thing: pressure, pressure, pressure. The Buckeyes will aim to make Hartman uncomfortable in the pocket, disrupting his timing and forcing him into difficult decisions. While Howard will be the focal point of the pass rush, Ohio State’s defense is not a one-man show. The Buckeyes have a deep and talented defensive line, featuring multiple pass rushers who can collapse the pocket from different angles.

Howard’s Role in the Scheme: Howard will be used in various ways to create confusion for the Notre Dame offense. He’ll be tasked with lining up on the edge and exploiting any weaknesses in the Irish offensive line. However, Ohio State’s defensive coordinator will also look to move Howard around to take advantage of mismatches. By lining him up in different spots, the Buckeyes can create confusion for the offensive line and force Notre Dame’s offensive line to shift its protection schemes.

Keys to Success for Howard:

1. Get Off the Line Quickly: Howard’s initial burst off the line of scrimmage is key to his success as a pass rusher. Against an experienced quarterback like Hartman, it’s essential to disrupt his timing early in the play, not giving him the luxury of settling into his rhythm. A quick first step will give Howard a chance to get past offensive tackles and create pressure on Hartman.
2. Stay Disciplined: While it’s tempting to take risks and go for the sack every play, Howard needs to maintain his discipline. Hartman is adept at using play action, and Ohio State’s defensive linemen need to remain patient to avoid overcommitting on plays that could lead to big gains down the field. Howard’s ability to stay disciplined in his rush and control his movement will be critical in making sure Hartman doesn’t escape the pocket or exploit gaps in the defense.
3. Work with Teammates: Although Howard is the primary pass rusher, he will need the support of Ohio State’s defensive front. By working together, the defensive line can collapse the pocket and limit Hartman’s options. Howard’s ability to push the pocket from one side while his teammates apply pressure from other angles will make it more difficult for Hartman to find open passing lanes.

Notre Dame’s Offensive Line: The Key to Protecting Hartman

While Ohio State’s defensive line will be looking to get after Hartman all game long, Notre Dame’s offensive line will need to step up to the challenge. The Irish have one of the most physical and experienced offensive lines in college football, and they will need to lean on that experience to protect Hartman from Howard and the rest of Ohio State’s defensive front.

Key Players for Notre Dame:

1. Joe Alt (Left Tackle): Alt is one of the best offensive linemen in the country and will likely be tasked with protecting Hartman’s blindside. His ability to handle the pass rush from Howard will be one of the most critical aspects of the game. If Alt can hold his own and keep Howard from getting to Hartman, it will give the quarterback time to operate and make plays down the field.
2. Jarrett Patterson (Center): Patterson is another key figure on Notre Dame’s offensive line. As the center, he will need to help with both the pass protection and the running game. He will also be key in calling out Ohio State’s defensive alignments, ensuring that the offensive line is properly prepared for what’s coming.
3. Blake Fisher (Right Tackle): Fisher will also play a critical role in stopping Howard. While Alt is likely to face the most pressure, Fisher will need to provide solid protection on the right side and help mitigate the pressure from Ohio State’s defensive line.

How Notre Dame Can Protect Hartman:

1. Quick Passes: One of the best ways to counter a strong pass rush is to implement a quick-passing game. Notre Dame will likely rely on short slants, quick outs, and screen plays to neutralize Howard and Ohio State’s defensive pressure. By getting the ball out quickly, Hartman can minimize the time Howard has to get to him, giving the Irish offense a fighting chance against the Buckeyes’ front seven.
2. Play Action: Another way Notre Dame can slow down Howard’s rush is by using play action. If the offensive line can sell the run effectively, it could freeze Howard and other defenders for just a moment, allowing Hartman the extra time needed to make a play down the field.
3. Double Teams: To mitigate Howard’s effectiveness, Notre Dame’s offensive line could utilize double-teams and chips from running backs or tight ends. By bringing extra help to the edge, the Irish can slow down Howard’s progress and keep him from being disruptive.

The X-Factor: Hartman’s Poise Under Pressure

Ultimately, the biggest question is whether Sam Hartman can remain calm under the pressure created by Will Howard and Ohio State’s defensive line. Throughout his career, Hartman has shown the ability to stay poised and composed, even when the stakes are high. In the biggest game of his life, his ability to maintain that composure will be the difference between success and failure.

Hartman’s ability to read defenses quickly, recognize pressure, and make the right decisions on the fly will be crucial in neutralizing Ohio State’s pass rush. If Hartman can stay in rhythm, keep the chains moving, and avoid costly mistakes, Notre Dame will have a strong chance of coming out on top.