In a stunning development, five-star quarterback Will Howard (6’4″, 236 lbs) has officially decommitted from Ohio State and committed to the Ole Miss Rebels. The highly sought-after signal caller made the decision to join the Rebels, choosing them over powerhouse programs such as Georgia and Colorado. This move is a significant shift in the recruiting landscape, as Howard was previously one of the top commitments for Ohio State’s 2025 class, with many expecting him to be a key piece of the Buckeyes’ future. However, after careful consideration and visits to other programs, Howard ultimately decided to take his talents to Oxford, Mississippi.
The recruitment of Howard has been one of the most closely followed stories in college football, with major programs from across the country vying for his commitment. Howard has been regarded as one of the best quarterback prospects in the 2025 class, with his combination of size, arm strength, and mobility making him a coveted prospect. At 6’4″ and 236 pounds, Howard possesses the physical tools to succeed at the next level, and his ability to make throws from the pocket, as well as extend plays with his legs, made him a perfect fit for a variety of offensive schemes.
Howard’s decision to decommit from Ohio State and commit to Ole Miss is a significant blow for the Buckeyes, who had been hoping to secure him as their quarterback of the future. Ohio State’s program, led by head coach Ryan Day, is known for developing elite quarterbacks and has produced some of the top signal-callers in recent years, including Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud. The loss of Howard, however, could create a gap at the quarterback position for Ohio State, who will now need to look elsewhere to fill that role in their 2025 class.
For Ole Miss, this commitment is a major win and further solidifies their place among the top programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Head coach Lane Kiffin has made significant strides in building Ole Miss into a competitive force in the SEC, and Howard’s commitment is another piece of the puzzle for the Rebels. Known for their explosive offense and ability to develop quarterbacks, Ole Miss now has a potential game-changer under center for the future.
Howard’s decision to choose Ole Miss over other elite programs such as Georgia and Colorado is an intriguing one. Georgia, the defending national champions, has been a juggernaut in college football, and their program is known for producing top-tier quarterbacks, including recent NFL draft picks. Colorado, under the leadership of head coach Deion Sanders, has made waves in the recruiting world and has quickly become one of the most intriguing programs in college football. However, Howard ultimately decided that Ole Miss was the best fit for him.
There are several factors that likely influenced Howard’s decision. First and foremost, the relationship with the coaching staff played a significant role. Lane Kiffin, a former NFL head coach with a reputation for developing offensive talent, has built a reputation for being a quarterback-friendly coach who thrives in the modern, pass-heavy college football landscape. Kiffin’s offensive system and his ability to develop quarterbacks could have been a major draw for Howard, who will likely be asked to lead a high-powered offense in Oxford.
Additionally, the opportunity to play in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in college football, likely appealed to Howard. While Georgia and other SEC programs have their own advantages, Ole Miss offers a unique opportunity to play for a rising program with the chance to make an immediate impact. As one of the top quarterbacks in the country, Howard will likely be given the keys to the Ole Miss offense and the chance to showcase his skills on a national stage.
The timing of Howard’s commitment is also noteworthy. With the 2024 season fast approaching, many teams are finalizing their 2025 recruiting classes, and Howard’s decision could impact the recruiting landscape for other schools. His commitment to Ole Miss could make the Rebels an even more attractive destination for other top prospects, particularly at the wide receiver and offensive line positions. Ole Miss is now a serious player in the recruiting battles for top-tier talent, and Howard’s presence under center will likely attract attention from other elite recruits.
Howard’s decision has also created a ripple effect in the college football world. As one of the most highly anticipated quarterback prospects in recent years, his commitment will likely impact the recruiting strategies of other programs looking for a quarterback in the 2025 class. Ohio State, for example, will now have to pivot and explore other options, while Georgia and Colorado may revisit their quarterback recruitments as well.
In the end, Will Howard’s commitment to Ole Miss is a significant moment in the 2025 recruiting cycle and could have long-lasting implications for the college football landscape. For the Rebels, it’s a huge victory that could help elevate the program to new heights in the SEC. For Howard, it’s an opportunity to play in an exciting offense under a coach known for developing quarterbacks, and it’s a chance to make an immediate impact in one of the most competitive conferences in the country. As his recruitment winds down, the excitement surrounding Howard’s future in Oxford is sure to grow, and the college football world will be watching closely as he begins his journey with the Ole Miss Rebels.
Be the first to comment