Will Howard knows he’s joining an Ohio State program with elevated standards.
After four seasons at Kansas State, the quarterback represented one of Ohio State’s marquee offseason transfers. Howard inherits a Buckeyes squad expected to compete for a national championship.
Speaking at the Manning Passing Academy, Howard said he’s embracing the added pressure of his new surroundings.
“It is tough,” Howard said, as transcribed by On3. “The expectations are higher, but I knew what I was signing up for.”
Howard explained that he wanted a brighter spotlight to help prepare him for the next stage. He’s excited to honor a long legacy of star Buckeyes under center.
“The ultimate goal for me is the NFL, being a starter in the NFL,” Howard said. “And I knew if I didn’t put myself in uncomfortable positions and push myself and put these expectations on myself, then I wasn’t going to grow. Following in the footsteps of CJ [Stroud] and Justin [Fields] and Dwayne [Haskins], and JT [Barrett]. Like, the succession of quarterbacks there is special, and I hope I can carry it on in a good way.”
With star running back Quinshon Judkins and five-star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith also joining their offense, the Buckeyes have high hopes of overcoming past struggles against Michigan to win the Big Ten and vie for a title. Yet Howard isn’t basking in the preseason hype.
Howard said he’s “tired” of hearing about how great Ohio State’s roster is. He’s eager to display the team’s offseason work and reach the program’s lofty goal of winning a national championship.
“For us, it’s natty or bust. There’s no doubt in my mind,” Howard said. “We have all the talent. We have all of the intangibles, but now we just got to go do it.”
Related: Ohio State Football Star Says It’s National Title Or Bust In 2024