Breaking: 5-Star QB Will Howard Stuns College Football World, Chooses Ohio Bobcats Over Powerhouses
ATHENS, OH—In a shocking turn of events, five-star quarterback Will Howard has announced his decommitment from the Ohio State Buckeyes and will instead be taking his talents to the Ohio Bobcats. The 6-foot-4, 236-pound phenom spurned powerhouse programs like Texas and Georgia to make what many are calling the most surprising commitment of the recruiting cycle.
Howard, one of the top-rated quarterbacks in the nation, initially pledged to Ohio State early in his recruiting process. However, in recent weeks, speculation began to swirl about his growing interest in smaller programs, particularly the Bobcats, whose coaching staff had remained in close contact despite his original commitment.
In an emotional social media post, Howard confirmed his decision with a simple message: “Welcome to the family.” The post was accompanied by a photo of him wearing an Ohio Bobcats uniform and standing beside head coach Tim Albin.
“I’ve had a lot of time to think about where I want to spend the next few years of my career,” Howard said in an exclusive interview. “At the end of the day, I want to play for a program where I feel at home, where I can truly lead and make an impact. Ohio gave me that feeling from day one.”
The decision sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, as Ohio University—typically known for its strong presence in the MAC—has never landed a recruit of Howard’s caliber. Recruiting analysts quickly began comparing the move to past historic commitments from top recruits who bucked traditional power programs in favor of mid-major schools.
“Will Howard’s decision is unprecedented in this modern recruiting era,” said 247Sports analyst Mike Rawlings. “For a player of his stature to choose Ohio over Texas and Georgia—it’s something we haven’t really seen before.”
While many fans expected Howard to compete for a national championship at a major program, the quarterback seems determined to carve his own path.
“Winning isn’t about the name on the jersey,” Howard added. “It’s about the people in the locker room and the bond you build. I believe in this team, and I want to help take Ohio to places it’s never been before.”
His decision has already begun to pay dividends for the Bobcats, with several high-profile recruits now rumored to be considering Ohio as a serious destination.
For now, Bobcats fans are celebrating what could be a turning point in their program’s history. The Will Howard era in Athens is about to begin, and the college football world will be watching.