Will Howard: Ohio State quarterback Will Howard is set for a defining moment on Saturday as the No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes face off against No. 3 Penn State. A win in this high-stakes Big Ten matchup is crucial for Ohio State’s playoff aspirations and could solidify Howard’s place among the season’s top quarterbacks.

For Howard, this game carries personal significance. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, he grew up a Penn State fan and dreamed of donning their blue and white uniform. However, after being overlooked by his home-state team, Howard found his way to Ohio State, where he’s become a force to be reckoned with. The former three-star recruit from Downington West high school, who once ranked as Pennsylvania’s No. 7 prospect, is now seizing the spotlight with impressive stats — currently second nationally in passing efficiency and third in completion percentage.

After transferring from Kansas State, where he was an All-Big 12 quarterback and led the Wildcats to a conference title, Howard joined Ohio State with a mission: to elevate his NFL draft profile and bring the Buckeyes back to the Big Ten championship game.

As Ohio State heads into Happy Valley, they may have a secret weapon in freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Former NFL quarterback and analyst Tim Tebow has been vocal about Smith’s immense potential, comparing him to stars like Julio Jones. According to Tebow, Smith’s remarkable catch radius, route-running ability, and athleticism make him a critical target for Howard against Penn State’s defense. Smith, who boasts 623 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, is poised to play a pivotal role on Saturday.

The Ohio State defense will also face a major test, aiming to rebound after a recent tough loss to Oregon. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles acknowledges the challenge, emphasizing the need to stay disciplined and return to fundamental play against Penn State’s versatile offense, led by their powerful tight end, Tyler Warren.

Ohio State is also working on revamping its ground game, which struggled recently with just 305 rushing yards over the past two games. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly stresses that to compete in the Big Ten, they must control the run game. This will be particularly challenging against a Penn State defense that ranks first nationally in stopping opponents’ runs.

Both teams have a lot on the line in this rivalry. Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day, is striving to improve his record against top-five teams, while Penn State’s James Franklin aims to break a tough streak of losses in similar matchups. As they prepare for one of the biggest games of the season, the Buckeyes and the Nittany Lions will each look to secure a win that could define their paths to the championship.

With Will Howard leading the way and Jeremiah Smith ready for big plays, Ohio State is gearing up for what could be their defining game of the season.