Top transfer QB chooses Big Ten powerhouse

Ohio State lost starting quarterback Kyle McCord to the transfer portal when he committed to Syracuse shortly after the 2023 regular season ended.

ESPN's Pete Thamel reported on Thursday that Ohio State centered its search for a replacement on Howard, believing that his combination of experience, arm strength and mobility made him the best quarterback in the transfer portal. 

Howard spent the past four years at Kansas State and led the Wildcats to a Big 12 title during the 2022 season. Over the past two years, he threw 39 touchdown passes to 14 interceptions. He also rushed for 351 yards and nine touchdowns this season for the Wildcats. 

Ohio State's offense badly regressed this season, finishing 45th in the nation in points per game (30.5), down from the second spot (44.2 per game) during the 2022 season.

He said the ability to compete for a national championship is one of the things that drew him to Ohio State over other schools.

The Buckeyes looked to be in the driver's seat for a spot in the College Football Playoff all season, winning their first 12 games. But another loss to Michigan pushed them out of the top four. With McCord transferred and Heisman Trophy finalist wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. opting out, Ohio State also lost the Cotton Bowl, 14-3, to Missouri, ending the year with back-to-back losses. 

With an expanded playoff starting next season, the Buckeyes should have an increased chance of playing for a national title. They believe they have the quarterback to help get them there.