The Ohio State Buckeyes are sitting in a good position right now, ranking third in the polls and entering Week 4 with a 2-0 record. Sure, they haven't been tested yet, but would Ryan Day change a thing? Not so far, but the biggest concern for the Buckeyes' title run is at quarterback.
While Will Howard has played well, completing almost 65 percent of passes for 9.6 yards per attempt and four scores, he's not matched Ohio State's other transfer portal target. The Buckeyes first chased after Cam Ward, who is now surging in Heisman Trophy odds and 2025 NFL Draft circles.
Multiple sources confirmed to me the Buckeyes and Miami Hurricanes were in a bidding war for the prior Washington State and Incarnate Word playmaker. Ward, estimated at $1.7 million in NIL value , is now the betting favorite to win the Heisman.
Cam Ward Heisman Trophy Odds
Ward rose to first place in the Heisman race as soon as former Ohio State quarterback Quinn Ewers suffered a mild oblique strain. Ward is now +450 to win the award entering Week 4.
Ward has emerged as the top contender in the Heisman Trophy race following a dazzling performance in Miami's overwhelming 62-0 victory over Ball State during the third week. Ward delivered an outstanding game, throwing for 346 yards and five touchdowns, completing 19 out of 28 attempts before being taken out early in the second half.
His ability to distribute the ball effectively was evident as he managed to throw touchdown passes to several receivers. Notably, the ex-WSU quarterback connected with Xavier Restrepo for two touchdowns and also found Jacolby George, Elijah Arroyo, and Chris Johnson Jr. in the end zone.
Following this standout performance and Quinn Ewers' injury, Ward has seen a significant shift in his favor in the Heisman Trophy betting odds. By Saturday night, DraftKings had Ward as the +550 front-runner, indicating a 15.4% chance of winning.
Although Ward is currently leading the odds, the unpredictable nature of the Heisman race suggests that his position is not guaranteed. The odds can fluctuate widely from week to week, and it wouldn't take much for Ward to fall behind in the competition.
Nonetheless, Ward's contribution to the U has been undeniable. Over three games, his statistics are remarkable: he's amassed 1,035 passing yards, thrown 11 touchdowns against just one interception, and maintained a 73% completion rate.
But What About Will Howard?
Ohio State has one of the top NIL departments in the country, and Howard surely netted a nice deal to replace Kyle McCord . It was self-reported by Ohio State that they spent $20 million on this roster , and adding Ward would've cost even more. Would it have been worth it?
Howard has played well and should be good enough for this team to win the title. Georgia looks vulnerable, and Texas doesn't have the defensive front seven to really scare the Buckeyes. And Michigan? Forget about it.
But Howard isn't a pristine passer like Ward is. His accuracy wanes, and he's not used to throwing receivers open. He comes from a more restricted offense at Kansas State, compared to an offense requiring him to process quickly and make NFL-level reads.
Ward would've required an adjustment to this scheme as well. He is an A-plus creator with high-level passing acumen. If this season and the draft process go well, he can be a top-10 pick.
But he's overly reliant on creating himself, and seeing him thrive within a more defined role has been enlightening. Mario Cristobal has been able to control him like he did Justin Herbert, which was not always for the best.
Compare that upside to Howard, who will likely land on Day 3 as a backup candidate.
Did Ohio State make the right choice not to give Ward a blank checkbook? Maybe.
IÂ think this team would've been unbeatable with Ward, but it might've been unnecessary. I still think Howard gets the job done, but it's tempting to dream about having an elite quarterback throwing to Jeremiah Smith and maximizing these playmakers.
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