In a heart-stopping turn of events during the 2025 Cotton Bowl, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard was sidelined with a severe hand injury, leaving both fans and teammates in shock. The Buckeyes’ promising season took an unexpected blow as Howard, who had led the team with poise and determination all season, suffered an injury that could potentially jeopardize his football future.
The Cotton Bowl, one of the premier bowl games in college football, was already an emotional rollercoaster, but the injury to Howard added a somber tone to what was shaping up to be a competitive matchup. The Buckeyes were locked in a tense battle, showcasing their trademark high-powered offense. Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, had quickly become a fan favorite due to his leadership on the field and his ability to make big plays when the team needed them most. However, just as the game was reaching its peak, disaster struck.
During a routine play in the third quarter, Howard was sacked in the backfield by a fierce defensive lineman. In the aftermath of the play, he was visibly in pain, clutching his right hand. Medical staff rushed to the field, and Howard was immediately escorted to the sidelines, where further examination revealed the severity of the injury. While the exact nature of the injury was not immediately clear, initial reports suggested that it involved a fracture or severe ligament damage, requiring immediate attention.
The impact of this injury went beyond just the physical toll on Howard. Ohio State’s championship hopes were dealt a massive blow. With the Buckeyes already facing a tough opponent in the Cotton Bowl, losing their star quarterback left them in a vulnerable position. Backup quarterback options, though talented, had not seen as much playing time during the season, making the situation even more precarious.
Fans in the stands were visibly shaken by the injury. Many had traveled from all over the country to witness what they hoped would be a triumphant conclusion to the season, only to see their hopes dashed by the unexpected injury. Ohio State’s coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day, immediately had to adjust their game plan on the fly, turning to backup quarterbacks and altering offensive strategies to minimize the damage.
For Howard, the injury raised serious questions about his future. Having come to Ohio State with high expectations after a successful stint at Kansas State, Howard had hoped to continue his rise and possibly improve his NFL draft stock. A severe hand injury could potentially derail those plans, leaving him with difficult decisions about his recovery timeline and whether to return to college football for another season or pursue a career in professional sports. There were also concerns about how the injury would impact his long-term playing career, as hand injuries can be particularly troublesome for quarterbacks who rely heavily on their throwing motion.
As the game continued, Ohio State fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, losing in a dramatic finish that saw the team struggle without their star quarterback. Fans and analysts alike will now be left to wonder what the future holds for Will Howard. The severity of the injury will determine not just the remainder of Ohio State’s season but also the trajectory of Howard’s career in the coming years.
For now, the focus is on Howard’s recovery and how the Buckeyes will navigate the challenges that lie ahead, both in terms of their game plan and the uncertainty surrounding their starting quarterback.
