After the big win against the Texas Longhorns at AT&amp;T Stadium, the Ohio State Buckeyes are just one step away from reaching the National Championship Game, the main goal of this season. To crown a great year, they must defeat the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a> knows that despite all the challenges throughout the season, they can do it.


 


Without a doubt, this stage of the season’s playoffs highlights the tension that teams live with and how difficult it is to reach the final game with a chance to win the championship. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a> want to prove that all their efforts so far have not been in vain, and they will go all in against their rival.



“Without going through those things, we wouldn’t have come through like we did in the fourth quarter,” Day said, per Chris Vannini. “I couldn’t be prouder, but we’ve got to finish this thing, and they know it.”



Ohio State finished the regular season with only two losses, but these took a deep emotional toll on the team. The first was a very close defeat to the Oregon Ducks, while the other was none other than against the Michigan Wolverines, in the final game before the playoffs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250111_BUS_310770_Ryan-Day-S-1024x576_d855d5de.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Day Ohio State HC" class="wp-image-310802" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11094905/Ryan-Day-S.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jack Sawyer #33 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates during the trophy ceremony after beating the Texas Longhorns 28-14 to win the Goodyear Cotton Bowl at AT&amp;T Stadium on January 10, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Sawyer reflected on his affection for Ryan Day</h2>



Ryan Day has been one of the main architects of the Buckeyes’ great season. Not only in terms of coaching, where he’s had to make important decisions, but also in the emotional impact he has had on his players.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/ncaaf-news-buckeyes-qb-will-howard-makes-bold-revelation-about-jack-sawyers-key-play"></div>


Jack Sawyer was a key factor in the victory over Texas, after making an impressive play by sacking Quinn Ewers and then scoring a touchdown for his team. After the game, he spoke with the press and made it clear what the head coach means to him and his teammates.


 


“I love that guy so much. He means so much to us on a daily basis. The things he’ll do for you, he goes to bat for all of us,” Sawyer said of Day. “He always has our backs and I just feel so happy for him and his family that we got this win. And now we’re headed to the national championship. I love the state. I love Columbus, Ohio. I love these people. I love this damn team so much.”



<h2>Notre Dame in the sights of the Buckeyes</h2>



The College Football season will have its final chapter next Monday, January 20th. The venue will be the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, home of the Falcons. There, the Ohio State Buckeyes, led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a>, will face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, led by Riley Leonard.



Each team, with its flaws and virtues, will have time to prepare the best possible way for this crucial game, which will determine the new <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">NCAAF</a> champion.

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miniaturas

The Cotton Bowl did not disappoint. Neither did Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns, at least in terms of the thrilling finish to the game. When Sarkisian’s team had a chance to tie it up at the end, Jack Sawyer showed no mercy to Quinn Ewers, securing his team’s spot in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">NCAAF</a> final. Will Howard had another stellar performance and confessed he wasn’t surprised by his teammate’s play.


 


<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a>‘s team is now headed to the National Championship Game, where they will face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to determine who will be crowned champion in College Football. Howard, one of the standout players of the game, spoke with the press after the victory was sealed and made a surprising revelation about the final play.



“I’m not surprised, by any means. That guy has been playing possessed the last month,” the talented quarterback stated. “I had my face in my towel when the ball was snapped, and I looked up and I saw him just strip, take the ball and go. I was like, oh my God.”



Sawyer had been a roommate with Ewers during the quarterback’s time at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Ohio State</a>, before his move to Longhorns. Their friendship was set aside once the game started, and that’s how the talented defensive end expressed it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250111_BUS_310750_Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-1024x576_322a0bb8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jack Sawyer Will Howard" class="wp-image-310764" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/11084426/Will-Howard-Jack-Sawyer.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 and Jack Sawyer #33 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrate during the trophy ceremony after beating the Texas Longhorns 28-14 to win the Goodyear Cotton Bowl at AT&amp;T Stadium on January 10, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.</figcaption></figure>



“I blacked out there for a second,” Sawyer said to the press. “I felt like I was in quicksand. I just was glad that I got a block from the guys running behind me and God blessed me with the ability to make a big-time play.”


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<h2>Sawyer makes it clear what the head coach means to the team</h2>



Although the Buckeyes have immense talent on the field, it is Ryan Day who takes the reins and ensures everything runs smoothly as planned. Jack Sawyer is well aware of the coach’s influence on the team, and that is proven game after game.



“I love that guy so much. He means so much to us on a daily basis. The things he’ll do for you, he goes to bat for all of us,” Sawyer said of Day. “He always has our backs and I just feel so happy for him and his family that we got this win. And now we’re headed to the national championship.


 


“I love the state. I love Columbus, Ohio. I love these people. I love this damn team so much.”



<h2>Ryan Day’s emotional message</h2>



The Buckeyes had to navigate a tough season, with ups and downs not only in terms of performance but also emotionally. Reaching this stage of the tournament is a great achievement, but the coach knows his team has everything it takes to be crowned champions.



“I believe that the resilience that we’ve had to show throughout the entire season and through some of these guys’ careers has led us to this opportunity to win this game and go play for a national championship,” coach Ryan Day said. “We talked before the game about how you leave a legacy is to become your own legend. There’s some guys on this team today that, I believe, will become legends in Ohio State history.”



<h2>When is the National Championship Game played?</h2>



Only nine days separate the Ohio State Buckeyes from the much-anticipated championship final. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a>‘s team will travel next Monday, January 20th, to Atlanta, Georgia, to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the impressive Mercedes-Benz Stadium.



It is worth noting that Marcus Freeman’s team comes off a victory over none other than the Penn State Nittany Lions, and they too will be chasing the National Championship Game, aiming to crown the season with a title.

Buckeyes QB Will Howard makes bold revelation about Jack Sawyer's key play

NCAAF News: Buckeyes QB Will Howard makes bold revelation about Jack Sawyer's key play - Bolavip US

NCAAF News: Buckeyes QB Will Howard makes bold revelation about Jack Sawyer's key play

The NCAAF is slowly reaching its final stages, and next weekend, a major showdown will take place between two title contenders: the Texas Longhorns and Ohio State Buckeyes will face off at AT&amp;T Stadium to determine who will claim the Cotton Bowl. Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas team, knows he will face a tough opponent led by the talented QB <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a>.


 


In recent statements to the press, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/steve-sarkisian">Sarkisian</a> made it clear the skills possessed by the quarterback of Ryan Day’s team, emphasizing that they will need to step up their efforts to contain his offensive power.



“The first thing is, he’s a much better athlete than people probably give him credit for,” Sarkisian said. “He snapped off about a 70 yard touchdown run against us a few years ago. He has good speed, he’s got great poise and composure in the pocket. You can tell he’s very bright. You know, the system they ran at Kansas State put a lot on the quarterback and knowing coach Kelly and coach Day and what they do, him managing the offenses that way, so he’s got he’s got intelligence.



“He’s got athletic ability, and then his ability to throw a catchable ball. You know, I’ve seen that. now for a few years you know he throws passes where they need to be thrown and guys make plays for him and his poise and composure in critical moments is something that has been very impressive as well,” he also added.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250108_BUS_309003_Will-Howard-13-1024x576_26e6a628.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Will Howard Ohio State QB" class="wp-image-309044" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/08161935/Will-Howard-13.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after a Buckeyes touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the fourth quarter in the Playoff First Round Game at Ohio Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio. </figcaption></figure>



So far this season for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a>, Howard has accumulated 3,490 yards, 32 touchdowns, nine interceptions, a 72.6% completion percentage, 165 rushing yards, and seven rushing touchdowns.


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<h2>Ryan Day shares his thoughts on Will Howard</h2>



Howard has innate talent, which he showcases game after game. In addition to that, he has gradually become the leader the team needs to carry them through the playoff games. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a> made this clear in recent statements to the press.



“I think, even for somebody who’s, you know, experienced like he is, and you know, with his age, you still, you know — you’re in a different school, you’re in a different program, you’re in a different offense, and playing within the offense, and being here now for the number of games that he’s played, he’s learned a lot about himself, but he’s also learned a lot of the offense, and he grown into the offense,” Day said.


 


“And I think he understands that his job is to be the number one leader on the team and on the field, and that the team is going to take on his personality, but in terms of the football on the field, I think he’s done a great job off the field of grasping the concepts.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250108_BUS_309003_Ryan-Day-7-1024x576_2eefdd7e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Day Ohio State HC" class="wp-image-307791" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/07083657/Ryan-Day-7.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Ryan Day of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks on during the third quarter against the Oregon Ducks during the Rose Bowl Game Presented by Prudential at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2025 in Pasadena, California.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Cardale Jones weighs in on Jeremiah Smith’s situation</h2>



Jeremiah Smith has undoubtedly become one of the standout figures of this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">College Football</a> season, with many already considering him a candidate for the NFL. Cardale Jones, former QB of the Buckeyes, believes that this could be a very good idea for the player.



“If he was my kid, I don’t know if he’s playing his third year in college. I don’t think he needs it,” Jones said. “I think he pulls some type of Ja’Marr Chase [move] where I know its COVID year, and LSU is going through some things his third year before he was draft eligible. But we see it worked out for him and other guys who didn’t play their third year just getting through those three years so that they can be draft eligible.”

Longhorns HC Steve Sarkisian makes something clear about Will Howard ahead of Cotton Bowl

NCAAF News: Longhorns HC Steve Sarkisian makes something clear about Will Howard ahead of Cotton Bowl - Bolavip US

NCAAF News: Longhorns HC Steve Sarkisian makes something clear about Will Howard ahead of Cotton Bowl

The Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard has become one of the biggest personalities in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>. The second-year senior has hit his stride in Columbus under head coach Ryan Day, exuding unmatched swagger and confidence on the field. After a commanding Rose Bowl victory over No. 1 ranked Oregon, Howard shifted his focus towards the Buckeyes’ upcoming test: against the Texas Longhorns, led by Quinn Ewers.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns">Texas</a> and Ohio State will square off in the College Football Playoffs Semifinal at the Cotton Bowl on January 10. The two schools last met in January, 2009 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona. Colt McCoy was the Longhorns’ quarterback then, leading a game-winning drive that culminated in a touchdown with just 16 seconds left, securing a 24-21 triumph for Texas.



Ewers and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Howard</a> were four and seven years old, respectively, the last time the Horns and Buckeyes met. Sixteen years later, they will get the chance to write their own chapter, as two storied programs in the NCAA go head-to-head.



While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a> fans may hold a grudge for the Longhorns since their last game, it’s been a long time and most have made their peace with that loss. However, and despite being in Ohio State for just one season, Howard has admitted his personal motivation to take down Texas and end their season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="574" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250102_BUS_305002_Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-1024x574_4d4b1798.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=574" alt="" class="wp-image-305023" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-300x168.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-768x430.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-1536x861.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131423/Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-celebrates-a-touchdown-during-the-first-quarter-against-t.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates a touchdown during the first quarter against the Oregon Ducks during the Rose Bowl Game Presented by Prudential at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2025 in Pasadena, California.</figcaption></figure>



“There was one team that I never beat in the Big 12, and it was Texas,” Howard confessed after the Rose Bowl, via ClutchPoints. “So I’m really looking forward to this game, man. I played them four times, you know, definitely have some feelings about them. And you know the way that we lost last year, we lost in overtime down there, I’m excited to get a crack at these guys, man.”


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Howard transferred to Ohio State this past offseason after a four-year stay in Kansas State. Howard owned a 17-11 record as the starting quarterback for the Wildcats, but could never take down the Longhorns. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/quinn-ewers">Ewers</a> got the better of Howard in both their previous matchups, in 2022 and 2023. The Buckeyes will be hoping that the third time’s the charm.



<h2>Will Howard shuts down critics with impressive outing vs Oregon</h2>



During the Buckeyes’ biggest game of the season, in a long-awaited rematch against the Ducks, Howard played lights out and put many narratives to sleep with an astounding performance. 



Ohio State came out flying, dominating Oregon and blowing the Ducks out of the water. The Buckeyes scored 34 unanswered points in the first half, and were in cruise control for pretty much the entirety of the second half.



Howard and Ohio State’ elite receiving corps left the Ducks secondary desperate for answers as they dismantled Dan Lanning’s defense. Howard finished the game with 319 yards and 3 passing touchdowns. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="574" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250102_BUS_305002_Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-1024x574_6996e073.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=574" alt="" class="wp-image-305024" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-300x168.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-768x430.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-1536x861.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02131527/Quarterback-Will-Howard-18-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-seen-in-action-during-the-game-against-the-Te.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Quarterback Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes seen in action during the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jeremiah Smith: WR1</h2>



The 19-year-old freshman Jeremiah Smith put on a clinic at the Rose Bowl. Coming into the 2024 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> season, the Buckeyes WR room was widely acknowledged, though many pointed at Emeka Egbuka as the top threat in it. 



However, Smith has taken the nation by storm in his first season and has many NFL teams hoping he’d be eligible for the upcoming draft. Fortunately for Ryan Day and Ohio State, Smith is staying in Columbus for at least two more seasons.


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Smith left defenders in the dust all day long against Oregon, finishing with 7 receptions for 187 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.

NCAAF News: Buckeyes QB Will Howard issues strong warning to Quinn Ewers, Longhorns

NCAAF News: Buckeyes QB Will Howard issues strong warning to Quinn Ewers, Longhorns - Bolavip US

The Rose Bowl will feature two great contenders on the field: on one side, the undefeated Oregon Ducks, and on the other, a solid team like the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ryan Day knows they can make a big impact and advance to the next phase of the CFP, as his QB <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a> has yet to showcase his full potential this season.


 


As they anticipate a high-stakes matchup where the game will likely be decided by the smallest of details, coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Day</a> knows his team is in good hands on the field, although Howard still has much to give.



“I still don’t think he’s played his best game yet,” Day said per Action Network. “I think he’s excited to continue to show his best play here into the playoffs (and) ultimately his leadership is what’s going to help us win this game (and) he knows that.”



The Buckeyes have only lost twice throughout the season, and, interestingly, one of those defeats came at the hands of Dan Lanning’s team back in October, during their visit to Eugene. Will this be the revenge for Day and his players?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241231_BUS_304108_Will-Howard-11-1024x576_82309131.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Will Howard Ohio State" class="wp-image-304247" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31154852/Will-Howard-11.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard (18) QB hands the ball off to (32) TreVeyon Henderson RB during the first half of the NCAA, College League, USA first round playoffs Tennessee vs Ohio State at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



Both the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oregon-ducks">Ducks</a> and the Buckeyes will face off in Pasadena, not only with the goal of claiming the coveted Rose Bowl but also with the opportunity to advance to the semifinals of the playoffs.


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<h2>Howard will look for revenge for that defeat in Eugene</h2>



October 12th was no ordinary day for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a>. The trip to Eugene and their subsequent matchup against the Ducks marked the first loss of the season for Ryan Day’s team. Despite the final result, Will Howard had a stellar performance that day.



The talented QB posted 326 passing yards and two touchdowns, though this wasn’t enough as his team ended up losing 32-31. Ryan Day, when asked about the situation, stated that he felt Howard used this lesson to come back stronger from the setback.


 


“Every great competitor does that. You remember the ones that didn’t go well and move on from the ones that did. It’s expected of you,” Day said, per Sports Illustrated. “Anytime you come away from a game like that, you learn and grow from it. Great competitors carry it with them as motivation. He’s an example of that, but he’s not the only one on our team. That’s helped our preparation and focus this week, knowing we have an opportunity to play Oregon again.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241231_BUS_304108_Ryan-Day-5-1024x576_e2c61ab6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Day Ohio State Buckeyes HC" class="wp-image-299188" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tennessee vs Ohio State DEC 21 December 21, 2024: Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day runs on the field after Ohio wins during the second half of the NCAA first round playoffs Tennessee vs Ohio State at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jeremiah Smith warns the Ducks of what will happen</h2>



While the matchup between the Ducks and Buckeyes may be one of the most evenly matched in a long time, there are those who believe and are confident in their superiority over their opponent. One example is receiver Jeremiah Smith, who warned Oregon of what will happen during the game in Pasadena.



“I’m just laughing in my head. ‘Why are y’all really playing man-on-man against us?’ Or against me, I should say?” said Smith to the press. “And when we see man [coverage] against any of our receivers, we’re going to take a shot down the field.”



“So I’m just letting everybody know right now that if you play man Wednesday, we’re taking a shot,” Smith finally concluded. Will the wide receiver’s predictions finally come true?

NCAAF News: Buckeyes HC Ryan Day sends strong warning about Will Howard

NCAAF News: Buckeyes HC Ryan Day sends strong warning about Will Howard - Bolavip US

Both the Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes are eagerly anticipating this big Rose Bowl matchup. However, for Will Howard, it won’t be just another game, as he looks to get revenge for what happened in the regular season when his team was defeated by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dan-lanning">Dan Lanning</a>‘s squad.


 


On October 12th, Ryan Day’s team traveled to Eugene to face the Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Unfortunately for them, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dillon-gabriel">Dillon Gabriel</a> and his teammates made the difference in the small details and ended up securing a narrow 32-31 victory.



The game could have been decided differently if it hadn’t been for a poor decision made by Howard at the end. Regarding this situation, the QB made a confession to the press: “I still have nightmares about that play.”



Although he still regrets what happened back then, Howard has another chance to defeat <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oregon-ducks">Oregon</a>: “I still run it over in my head: What could I have done better? … You don’t get second chances a lot in life. It just doesn’t happen. So I’m thankful that we even get a chance to go out there and play these guys again. … It’s about this team and the way that we lost that game, it still hurts. It still hurts all of us. So we’re excited for another crack at these guys.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241230_BUS_302973_Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-1024x576_97a7523d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Oregon Ducks Ohio State Buckeyes" class="wp-image-302988" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30105610/Ohio-State-Buckeyes-Oregon-Ducks.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Oregon Ducks running back Jordan James (20) runs onto Ohio State Buckeyes defensive ends Caden Curry (92) and JT Tuimoloau (44) during the NCAA, College League, USA Football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Oregon Ducks in Eugene, Oregon.</figcaption></figure>



“It’s hard to beat a team twice, and we’re hungry,” Howard stated to the press. “We’re ready for this, for this opportunity. I’m just so fired up that God blessed us with a second chance at this thing.”


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On January 1st, the Rose Bowl will take place in Pasadena, California, and will witness a high-stakes showdown between the only undefeated team of the regular season and the squad led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a>.



<h2>Mark Ingram’s prediction for the Rose Bowl</h2>



The Rose Bowl is one of those events that grabs attention across the country. Even more so for those who had the chance to play the sport not only at the collegiate level but also in the NFL. Mark Ingram, star of American football, shared his thoughts on what will be the matchup between the Ducks and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a>.



“I think those two losses put this team in the right mindset, and I think it’s going to be a close, tough battle,“ Ingram said about Day’s team. “But I think Ohio State finds a way to win this game, man. This is going to be a straight-up dogfight—the kind of football game we all deserve as college football fans. We’re gonna get it in this game, but I got it being a walk-off field goal.”



<h2>What did Dan Lanning say about Will Howard?</h2>



Despite being rivals, both teams have shown mutual respect due to the great campaigns they’ve had so far. Dan Lanning, head coach at Oregon, knows he has a worthy competitor in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a> heading into the upcoming matchup.


 


“I think he’s built a lot of confidence in the guys that he’s able to throw the ball to and even some confidence in the quarterback run game,” Lanning said. “I think you see him utilized a little bit more in the QB run game later in the season. But he does a good job of throwing good balls. He certainly threw a lot of good balls the other night down the field and was able to target those wideouts for explosive plays down the field.”

Buckeyes QB Will Howard sends strong warning to Dan Lanning's Ducks ahead of the Rose Bowl

Quinn Ewers&#039; net worth: How much money does the Texas Longhorns star have?

Buckeyes QB Will Howard sends strong warning to Dan Lanning's Ducks ahead of the Rose Bowl - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 42-17, eliminating the Vols from the College Football Playoffs. Much talk had taken place between both schools ahead of the matchup, setting the tune for a heated game. After the dominant victory at The Horseshoe, Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard posted on social media, sending a very strong statement to Tennessee.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a> has become one of the biggest trash-talkers in the country. The star QB in Columbus is not afraid to taunt opponents, and so far he’s been able to walk the talk (except for The Game against Michigan). When Ohio State defeated Indiana, earlier on the season, Howard mocked the Hoosiers by ‘putting out a cigarette’.



Leading up to the Tennessee-Ohio State matchup, almost everyone in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> shared their opinions on the SEC and Big Ten Conferences, debating which was superior. The Buckeyes, however, delivered a dominant performance at home, handing the Vols a resounding defeat. Howard didn’t let the chatter go unnoticed, delivering a blunt statement through a social media post.



“When people ask you what happened here, tell them the North remembers,” Will Howard posted, along with pictures of the Buckeyes-Volunteers game. “Tell them Winter came for the Volunteers. See y’all in Pasadena.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299294_Will-Howard-4-1024x576_62126782.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Will Howard Ohio State" class="wp-image-278799" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Will-Howard-4.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts prior to a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium on November 02, 2024 in State College, Pennsylvania.</figcaption></figure>



Howard’s impersonation of Arya Stark’s cold-blooded speech from Game of Thrones put a definitive full stop to the recent heated rivalry between the Buckeyes and Vols. It served as a fitting, cinematic ending to one of the most anticipated matchups in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> this season.


 

 

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<h2>Moving on</h2>



With their big win over Tennessee, the Buckeyes sent the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Volunteers</a> packing back to Knoxville. As for Ryan Day’s squad, Ohio State advanced to the CFP quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl, where they will face the No. 1 Oregon Ducks on New Year’s Day for a spot in the semifinal.



Oregon and Ohio State will meet again after their nail-biter classic earlier this season. The Buckeyes are hungry for revenge after the narrow 32-31 defeat during their visit to Eugene. Will Howard played, arguably, his best game of the year against Oregon. He finished the night with 28 completions for 326 yards and 2 touchdown passes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299294_Will-Howard-6-1024x576_342bd619.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Will Howard Ohio State QB" class="wp-image-298314" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the third quarter in the Playoff First Round Game at Ohio Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Howard warns the Ducks</h2>



Day and the Buckeyes offense are hoping for a similar outing when both schools clash in Pasadena. Moreover, Howard is ecstatic for the chance to face Oregon and earn a shot at redemption on a bigger stage.


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“Yeah, I’m excited, man,” Howard stated. “It’s going to be a heck of an opportunity for all of us. We’ve all been looking forward to this one and for another crack at [those] guys. The way that last one ended doesn’t sit right with me. It still bugs me.”



It’s going to be a spectacle for sure. It doesn’t get any bigger than a New Year’s Day matchup at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. The Big Ten powerhouses will clash, with only one emerging to head to the CFP semifinal at the Cotton Bowl, where they’ll face the winner of the Texas-Arizona State game.

NCAAF News: Will Howard drops cold-blooded statement after Ohio State's win vs Tennessee

Buckeyes HC Ryan Day makes something clear about Will Howard&#039;s performance after win vs Volunteers

NCAAF News: Volunteers QB Nico Iamaleava offers strong self-criticism after tough loss to Buckeyes

NCAAF News: Will Howard drops cold-blooded statement after Ohio State's win vs Tennessee - Bolavip US

Winning was crucial for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first round of the CFP in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">NCAAF</a>. However, they were up against a formidable opponent in the Tennessee Volunteers, making it essential to elevate their game to the highest level. Will Howard took charge of that, and Ryan Day perfectly illustrated where he saw the difference in his QB’s performance to secure the victory.


 


Howard is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in college football at his position, though sometimes raw talent alone isn’t enough to win big games. The OSU head coach was clear in pointing out the key detail that allowed Howard to lead his team to victory: “I thought his footwork was good,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Day</a> said in press conference.



“We worked hard on some of those throws, and he hit a few of those right on the money. The fade ball and go ball were really well done. The levels ball, too, and Carnell was really a well thrown ball. Probably missing a few others. But he was accurate today,” he also added



The coach focused primarily on footwork when highlighting his QB’s performance. “A big thing for Will is his footwork. When his footwork’s on point, and when he’s seeing things well, he’s as good as anybody in the country.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299080_Ryan-Day-5-1024x576_d4f8685d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Day Ohio State Buckeyes HC" class="wp-image-299188" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23154706/Ryan-Day-5.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tennessee vs Ohio State DEC 21 December 21, 2024: Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day runs on the field after Ohio wins during the second half of the NCAA first round playoffs Tennessee vs Ohio State at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



After the victory over Tennessee, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a> earned the right to play in the much-anticipated Rose Bowl. The game will take place in Pasadena, California, on January 1st, and their opponents will be the undefeated Oregon Ducks.


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<h2>Howard assured that he will hold nothing back heading into the final game</h2>



Will Howard’s final games wearing the Ohio State colors may be bittersweet for his fans. Despite this, the quarterback assured that he will give everything on the field to achieve great things for the program.



“I’ve been playing college football for five years now, and this is all I have left. Like, I have, you know, four games max left in my college career. So, I mean, there’s no other option than to just empty the tank, and leave it all out here, because this is all we have left, as college athletes,” Howard said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299080_Will-Howard-6-1024x576_cdda99a4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Will Howard Ohio State QB" class="wp-image-298314" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22115220/Will-Howard-6.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the third quarter in the Playoff First Round Game at Ohio Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Howard quoted a TV series after the victory against the Volunteers</h2>



The dominant victory of the Buckeyes over Tennessee saw <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a> as the standout player. In a somewhat hostile environment for the visiting team, the cold played a disadvantageous role for the Volunteers, who struggled to keep up with Ohio State.


 


After the game, the quarterback took to his Instagram to post images from the match with a curious caption referencing Game of Thrones: “When people ask you what happened here, tell them the North remembers. Tell them Winter came for the Volunteers.” 



“See y’all in Pasadena,” Howard concluded with a rose emoji. “Philippians 4:6-7”

Buckeyes HC Ryan Day reveals the key to Will Howard's standout performance against Tennessee

Buckeyes HC Ryan Day reveals the key to Will Howard's standout performance against Tennessee - Bolavip US

The Ohio State Buckeyes secured a solid victory over the Volunteers, earning a ticket to the Rose Bowl. In this matchup, they will face none other than the Oregon Ducks of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dan-lanning">Dan Lanning</a>, the only undefeated team of the regular season. Will Howard hasn’t forgotten their last defeat against Dillon Gabriel’s squad and knows they have the chance for redemption.


 


On January 1st, both the Buckeyes and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oregon-ducks">Ducks</a> will face off once again, this time in Pasadena, California. While these are completely different circumstances, many believe that Ryan Day’s squad can view this matchup as a chance for revenge for their narrow loss on October 12th, when they were defeated by just one point, 32-31.



Regarding this situation, Will Howard made it clear how he feels about facing Oregon once again: “Yeah, I’m excited, man,” the QB said. “It’s going to be a heck of an opportunity for all of us. We’ve all been looking forward to this one and for another crack at [those] guys. The way that last one ended doesn’t sit right with me. It still bugs me.”



Howard also added: “We did a hell of a job not letting off the gas. We could’ve let that become a game. Being able to keep the foot on the pedal was huge.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241222_BUS_298501_Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-1024x576_0e3bdad4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ohio State Buckeyes Oregon Ducks" class="wp-image-298532" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/22155619/Oregon-Ducks-Ohio-State-Buckeyes.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ohio State Buckeyes at Oregon Ducks OCT 12 October 12, 2024: Oregon Ducks tight end Terrance Ferguson (3) goes for extra yards after a catch during the NCAA Football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Oregon Ducks in Eugene, Oregon. Oregon defeated Ohio State 32-31.</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/will-howard">Will Howard</a> had a standout performance against the Tennessee Volunteers, with his teammates supporting him on offense to secure the win. He threw for 311 yards, along with two touchdown passes and one interception.


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<h2>Ryan Day highlighted the key factors in the victory over the Vols</h2>



The Buckeyes are part of an elite group of teams that are always considered contenders at the start of a season. Of course, this has to be reflected on the field, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a> knows this very well. Or at least, they demonstrated it during the game against Tennessee.


 


“We called this game more aggressively,” Day said. “There’s no question about that. But also, I think we did some things in this game that maximized what we have in terms of our strengths and minimized our deficiencies. Not that everything was perfect in this game. It wasn’t. But I do think — I also thought Will was excellent in this game. Played really well. Did a really good job of placing the ball. He made some big-time throws. When he needed to make plays with his legs, he did. Certainly, Jeremiah (Smith) was dynamite again. But Will was a leader.”



In addition to that, the coach made it clear the spirit that this team possesses: “These guys have a lot of pride,” Day said. “I think this said a lot about who our guys are to be able to respond like that in a big way.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241222_BUS_298501_Ryan-Day-1-1024x576_3373844e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ryan Day Ohio State" class="wp-image-248402" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Ryan-Day-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Ryan-Day-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Ryan-Day-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Ryan-Day-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Ryan-Day-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Ryan Day of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks on prior to a game against the Missouri Tigers during the Goodyear Cotton Bowl at AT&amp;T Stadium on December 29, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Howard showers Johnson with praise</h2>



One of the standout figures in the game where the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Buckeyes</a> emerged victorious against the Vols was true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The talented player finished the game with six catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns.



Will Howard, astonished by his teammate’s performance, couldn’t help but shower him with praise in the press conference after the game.



“He’s the dude, man,” Howard said per Jake Trotter of ESPN. “I think he’s the best receiver in the country. You see what the kid does with the ball in his hands. He’s just everything you want in a teammate and a receiver.”

Dan Lanning's Ducks receive warning from Buckeyes QB Will Howard ahead of the Rose Bowl

The first big step has been taken. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ohio-state-buckeyes">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> defeated the Tennessee Volunteers decisively and advanced to the next phase of the playoffs, where they will face none other than the Oregon Ducks. The high level of play was partly due to their QB Will Howard, who practically had no flaws in his performance. Regarding this, HC Ryan Day expressed his happiness with the performance displayed.


 


Beyond his satisfaction with the level shown by his quarterback, Day made it clear to the press after the game that one of the key factors in not giving Josh Heupel’s team any breathing room was the aggressiveness with which they approached the game from the very start.



“We called this game more aggressively, there’s no question about that,” Day said, drawing comparisons to the Buckeyes’ loss against Michigan. “But we also did some things in this game that maximize what we have. … And I thought Will [Howard] was excellent.”



Howard finished the game with a total of 311 passing yards and two touchdowns on 24-of-29 completions. Additionally, the Buckeyes had a standout performance from Smith, who recorded 6 catches for 103 yards, becoming the sixth freshman in CFP history to surpass 100 receiving yards.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241222_BUS_298277_Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-1024x576_40ddfc79.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Head coach Ryan Day of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks on prior to the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Wrigley Field on November 16, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois." class="wp-image-280756" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Head-coach-Ryan-Day-of-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-looks-on-prior-to-the-game-against-the-Northwestern-W.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Ryan Day of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks on prior to the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Wrigley Field on November 16, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.</figcaption></figure>



After this resounding victory against such a high-quality opponent, Ohio State earned the right to compete in the Rose Bowl, where they will face none other than the Ducks. Dan Lanning’s team was their conqueror in the regular season, so Ryan Day’s squad will be seeking revenge.


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<h2>Day reflected the pride he feels for his players</h2>



Although the game’s outcome didn’t seem to have much impact on the Buckeyes, it was clear that Nico Iamaleava’s team could pose a serious challenge on the road ahead. After the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ryan-day">Ryan Day</a> expressed his joy over the high level of play displayed by his players.


 


“I’m proud of our seniors for a lot of reasons,” he said. “One, for the fact that they were able to finish their last game at Ohio Stadium with a win like that. I’m also proud of the way they responded. I told them in the locker room that in life, you’re gonna be defined by the way you handle adversity as a person, as a man, as a dad.”



“To see the way they responded in this game, you could tell from the jump that they had a look in their eye and were gonna win this game. I thought they played that way. A lot of football ahead of us. Great win. But we’re gonna enjoy this for 24 hours, and then it’s on to Oregon,” he concluded.

Buckeyes HC Ryan Day makes something clear about Will Howard's performance after win vs Volunteers

Buckeyes HC Ryan Day makes something clear about Will Howard's performance after win vs Volunteers - Bolavip US

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