Will Howard: The Leader Ohio State Needs Against Michigan

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No. 2 Ohio State (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten Conference) will play its biggest game of the season on Nov. 30, facing off with the Michigan Wolverines (6-5, 4-4). The Buckeyes have lost three straight games in the rivalry series. However, quarterback Will Howard, who will lead the Ohio State offense in "The Game" this year, has declared how seriously he takes this game, calling it "definitely the biggest rivalry game I've ever played in."

Will Howard on 'The Game'

Howard told reporters that when he visited Ohio State before transferring, his hosts stressed the primacy of The Game, as the first and most important of three separate goals for the Buckeyes every year. Winning a B1G championship and a national championship only come after taking care of the Wolverines. In this case, a spot in the B1G title game is only secured for Ohio State with a win over Michigan.

In his media availability ahead of rivalry weekend, reporters' questions to Howard focused on The Game. When asked to describe the week leading up to the epic rivalry matchup, he said "For me, it hasn't really been this week. It's really been all year." He later added, "It's not really a rivalry, it's more of like a way of life."

The serious mindset with which Howard is approaching this game and acknowledging its importance is something the Buckeyes desperately need. During the three-game losing streak to the Maize and Blue, some Ohio State players have curiously downplayed the significance of The Game, including last year's QB Kyle McCord, who called it "just a football game." That was seen as a vast understatement by Buckeyes fans. The intensity and energy brought by Howard, heading into The Game, is more in tune with the attitude of Ohio State fans.

Howard has also spoken consistently about his love for his teammates and his appreciation of how they have accepted him as a new leader on a team full of veterans. Furthermore, he said he wants to win this game for all the seniors who came back for another opportunity to beat Michigan: "I love my brothers man, I love coach Day. I want to get this done, so bad, for them. And for Buckeye nation."

Howard's Play This Season

Howard has been stellar for Ohio State this season. He has orchestrated offensive coordinator Chip Kelly's offense to near-perfection, with incredible accuracy, especially in the short- to intermediate-range passing game. He is No. 2 in the NCAA in passing efficiency, only behind Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart. He has also been solid when throwing the deep ball and stepped up significantly in that department against Northwestern (4-7, 2-6) in Week 12.

Howard has 2,685 passing yards to go with 26 TDs. He has backed up the efficiency metrics with only 6 interceptions while facing three top-10 defenses this year. He has also rushed for 121 yards and 7 TDs. His play has been exactly what Ohio State has needed this season.

How Will Ohio State Attack the Michigan Defense?

The Michigan defense has been solid this year, ranking No. 23 in total defense. The defensive line has been the bright spot and will need to shut down the Ohio State run game and pressure Howard if the Wolverines are to have any chance of extending their win streak against the Buckeyes.

When facing this stout defense, Howard must act decisively and quickly in the pocket. Although he has a tendency to make a mistake or two per game that result in big losses or turnovers, he has a unique ability to move on from his mistakes and move forward with confidence.

During a press conference on Nov. 26, head coach Ryan Day explained very simply what the Buckeyes need from Howard this weekend. "We're going to need him to play well. He's got to be a great decision-maker. He's got to go get his first pair of gold pants."

Howard has played very well and made the right decisions consistently this year. Beyond his exceptional performance and statistics, his leadership is what Ohio State has benefited from most this season. Howard has brought a passion and intensity that has seemingly reinvigorated the team's attitude. The QB sets the tone for the offense. Howard's ability to play freely, but still with intensity and intelligence has led the Buckeyes to where they stand now. The focus, leadership and edge he brings will be vitally important as Ohio State looks to bring home the first pair of gold pants for Howard, and every player on the roster, this Saturday.