“We willed ourselves to win” encapsulates the essence of Ohio State quarterback Will Howard’s remarkable performance against Penn State. In a thrilling clash at Beaver Stadium, Howard, drenched in sweat and dirt, orchestrated a comeback that not only marked a personal triumph but also fulfilled a childhood dream. Just a week prior, he had openly expressed his deep-rooted connection to the Nittany Lions, the team he longed to play for. “They didn’t think I was good enough,” he reflected after the game, hinting at the motivation that fueled his determination. “But I guess we’ll see next week if I was.”
Ohio State QB Will Howard slides for a first down to secure the Buckeyes’ 20-13 win over Penn State. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
As the game unfolded, Howard made a pivotal 7-yard run and slide that sealed the Buckeyes’ 20-13 victory. Following the final kneel down, he was engulfed by teammates and coaches alike, all celebrating a historic first road win against a top-five opponent since 2006. Amid the jubilant chaos, Howard exclaimed, “Are you kidding me?!” as players rallied around him, celebrating their comeback from an early 10-point deficit. “That’s how you bounce back, baby!” shouted edge rusher JT Tuimoloau, embodying the team’s resilience.
Head coach Ryan Day emphasized the significance of this victory, stating, “In life, you have opportunities where you’ve got to will yourself to win. Our guys did that today.” He expressed pride in his team, particularly the seniors, believing this win would propel them forward in the season.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day speaks with FOX Sports’ Jenny Taft following the Buckeyes’ win over Penn State. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Throughout the game, scouts from teams like the Panthers, Raiders, and Bengals observed Howard closely, evaluating his skills and potential ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite a rocky start that included a pick-six on his first pass and a fumble, Howard managed to complete 16 of 24 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns, alongside 12 carries for 24 yards. “It wasn’t pretty,” he admitted, acknowledging his performance wasn’t his best. “But we willed that game.”
His teammates played a crucial role in this hard-fought victory. Howard credited them for their support, stating, “They bailed me out. Winning a game like that in my home state is unbelievable.”
Ohio State’s defense was instrumental, allowing only 270 total yards and limiting Penn State to three points in the red zone. A remarkable interception by cornerback Davison Igbinosun thwarted a potential lead for the Nittany Lions just before halftime. As the game neared its end, the Buckeyes’ defense executed a goal-line stand, stopping Penn State’s attempts to score. This marked a significant achievement for a defense that had faced criticism earlier in the season.
“That was huge,” Howard said, reflecting on the importance of the defense’s effort. “We willed ourselves to win that game.”
