Will Howard Shocks the College Football World, Flips Commitment to Oregon State
In a stunning turn of events, five-star quarterback Will Howard has officially decommitted from Ohio State and announced his commitment to Oregon State, choosing the Beavers over Kentucky and Georgia. The news sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, as Howard, a 6-foot-4, 236-pound signal-caller, had been considered a lock for the Buckeyes just weeks ago.
Howard, known for his rocket arm, high football IQ, and ability to extend plays with his legs, had long been one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the nation. With Ohio State’s recent history of producing NFL-caliber QBs, most analysts assumed he would follow in the footsteps of C.J. Stroud and Justin Fields. But in the end, the call of Corvallis proved too strong.
Why Oregon State?
While Ohio State offered the prestige and Georgia had the pedigree, Howard cited Oregon State’s coaching staff, offensive scheme, and culture as the key reasons behind his decision.
“I wanted to be somewhere I could grow—not just as a player, but as a person,” Howard said in a social media post. “Coach (Jonathan) Smith and his staff made me feel like family from day one. They believe in me, and I believe in them. Oregon State is building something special, and I want to be a part of it.”
The Beavers, who have been steadily rising in the Pac-12 over the last few seasons, now land their highest-rated quarterback prospect in program history. With Howard under center, Oregon State could be poised to challenge for conference titles—and perhaps even a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff.
Ripple Effects Across College Football
Howard’s decision sends shockwaves across multiple programs. Ohio State, once confident in its quarterback depth chart, will now scramble to secure another elite prospect. Kentucky, which had been in the final mix, must return to the drawing board. And Georgia, already stacked at the position, will move forward with its current recruits.
Meanwhile, Oregon State fans are celebrating what could be the most significant recruiting win in school history. The Beavers have long been viewed as underdogs in the college football arms race, but Howard’s commitment signals that they are now serious players on the national stage.
For now, one thing is clear—college football just got a lot more interesting. Welcome to the family, Will Howard.