JUST IN: Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day Speaks Candidly About the Role his QB has Played as a Buckeye.

Ohio State quarterback Will Howard has proven to be the precise player the Buckeyes anticipated securing from the transfer portal a year earlier.

Howard replaced Kyle McCord this season and has excelled in Columbus. Howard’s performance is partly the reason the Buckeyes are in a position to secure victory when they face Notre Dame in a week.

Following four seasons at Kansas State, Howard only has one season in Columbus, where he has already made a significant impact. Victories against Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas have positioned the Buckeyes to clinch the championship.

“When I watch him interact with our team, when I saw him on stage this evening and saw him hug everyone in the locker room — this guy really cares for his teammates,” Ohio State HC Ryan Day stated after the game. “Though he has only been here for a year, he has significantly impacted our team in this brief time.” He has influenced me significantly. There have been occasions when I arrive at work feeling low, stressed, or whatever else, and this guy lifts my spirits. He possesses a remarkable outlook on life. I informed his parents about that. They’ve worked wonderfully with him, but he has also contributed himself, thanks to the positive attitude he possesses.”

That reflects a firm viewpoint on Howard from Day, who has only had the chance to coach him for a single season. As a Buckeye, Howard is experiencing his best season yet as a college quarterback. Howard has completed 73 percent of his passes, throwing for 3,779 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Howard has contributed seven rushing touchdowns.

As a team leader, one instance that struck Day about Howard was when the Buckeyes faced a severe injury on the offensive line involving Seth McLaughlin.

“Losing Seth McLaughlin during practice was a significant setback for our team.” Seth was performing excellently, and he and Seth shared a wonderful bond. In that session, Will demonstrated some of the finest leadership I have ever witnessed.

Only one match is left for Howard in crimson and grey. He has already established a reputation in Columbus, but Howard will always be known as a National Champion Buckeye if he guides the team to another victory.