In a game that will be remembered for years, Will Howard delivered a performance that propelled Ohio State to a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Using both his precision passing and strategic rushing, Howard showcased why he was the heart of the Buckeyes’ offense, earning the title of Offensive MVP in the process.
A Showcase of Accuracy and Poise
Despite attempting only 21 passes—the third-fewest in his season—Howard’s efficiency was unmatched. He completed 17 of those attempts for 231 yards and two touchdowns. His 81% completion rate in the championship game marked his eighth outing this season with at least 80% accuracy, extending his program record. Howard’s precision culminated in a 73% completion rate for the season, the highest in Ohio State history.
From the opening whistle, Howard set a high standard, completing 13 consecutive passes—a CFP title game record. By halftime, he had connected on 14 of 15 passes for 144 yards and two scores. Though his second-half numbers dipped slightly, his overall contribution was enough to clinch Ohio State’s first national title in a decade.
A Dual Threat on the Field
Howard didn’t just dominate with his arm; his legs also played a pivotal role. He rushed for a season-high 57 yards on 16 carries, keeping Notre Dame’s defense guessing. On a crucial 3rd-and-5, when no receivers were open, Howard scrambled for an 11-yard gain, displaying the situational awareness and athleticism that make him a complete quarterback.
Unmatched Efficiency Across the Board
Whether targeting short, intermediate, or deep zones, Howard delivered. He completed 7-of-9 passes within nine yards for 60 yards and a touchdown and hit 2-of-3 on throws of 20+ yards, including a game-defining 56-yard bomb to freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith. His performance reflected his season-long dominance:
•Deep throws (20+ yards): 58.7% accuracy, 930 yards, 8 TDs, 2 INTs
•Intermediate throws (10-19 yards): 60.6% accuracy, 1,109 yards, 7 TDs, 4 INTs
•Short throws (0-9 yards): 75.9% accuracy, 1,345 yards, 15 TDs, 4 INTs
•Behind the line: 89.2% accuracy, 626 yards, 5 TDs
Master of Play Action
Play-action passing was another area where Howard excelled. In the championship game, he completed all seven play-action passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. Even without play-action, his efficiency shone through, averaging over 10 yards per attempt in both approaches.
Composure Under Pressure
Notre Dame’s defense tried to rattle Howard, blitzing him on 40% of his dropbacks. However, he remained unshaken. Under pressure just six times, he completed all three of his throws in those situations, a rare feat that speaks volumes about his poise.
Game-Sealing Play: A 56-Yard Masterpiece
The game’s turning point came late in the second half. On 3rd-and-11, with Notre Dame expecting a conservative play, Howard unleashed a perfectly placed 56-yard pass to Jeremiah Smith. The freshman receiver outran his defender, making a spectacular grab that sealed the game and Ohio State’s championship.
“When I saw the one-on-one matchup, I knew where the ball was going,” Howard said. “All I had to do was give Jeremiah a chance, and he delivered like he always does.”
Crowning a Historic Season
Howard’s 2024 campaign will go down as one of the finest in college football:
•Completion Rate: 73% (school record, 3rd in FBS)
•Total QBR: 89.6 (best in FBS)
•Passer Rating: 175.3 (4th in FBS)
With his championship-winning performance, Howard leaves Ohio State as a legend. His ability to deliver under pressure and elevate those around him ensured a season that Buckeye fans will never forget.
