**Breaking News: Five-Star Quarterback Will Howard Decommits from Ohio State, Commits to Ole Miss Rebels**
In a stunning turn of events that has sent ripples through the college football recruiting world, five-star quarterback Will Howard (6’4″, 236 lbs) has officially decommitted from Ohio State and pledged his commitment to the Ole Miss Rebels. This surprising decision comes after months of speculation and intense recruitment by some of the nation’s top programs, including Georgia and Colorado.
Will Howard’s commitment to Ole Miss is significant for several reasons. Not only is he one of the most coveted quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class, but his decision to join the Rebels also marks a major victory for Head Coach Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss football program. Kiffin has been known for his high-octane offense and innovative strategies, and securing a top-tier quarterback like Howard bolsters the team’s chances to continue to compete at a high level in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
### Howard’s Recruiting Journey: A Shift in Power
Up until recently, Ohio State seemed to be the front-runner in Howard’s recruitment. The Buckeyes had long been seen as the top choice, with their storied football program and elite quarterback development track record. Howard, who had initially committed to Ohio State in the fall of 2024, was widely regarded as a potential program-changing talent for the Buckeyes. With his strong arm, size, and ability to read defenses, Howard was expected to be the next in a long line of NFL-caliber quarterbacks to come out of Columbus.
However, over the past few months, Howard’s recruitment took a surprising turn. Georgia, another powerhouse program known for producing elite quarterbacks, made a strong push, offering Howard the opportunity to play under one of the best coaching staffs in the country. Georgia’s recent dominance in college football, including a national championship, only made them a more attractive option.
Simultaneously, Colorado, led by the charismatic Coach Deion Sanders, also entered the race. Sanders, who has been turning heads with his ability to land top-tier talent and reshape the Buffaloes’ football program, had been targeting Howard as a centerpiece for his rapidly evolving squad. Colorado’s rise in prominence and their growing reputation in the college football landscape undoubtedly played a role in Howard’s decision-making process.
Despite the impressive recruiting efforts from Ohio State, Georgia, and Colorado, Howard ultimately decided to commit to Ole Miss. His choice is a testament to the rising power of the Rebels’ football program under Lane Kiffin. Ole Miss, a program that has experienced significant success in recent years, has been able to make inroads with top-tier talent in both the SEC and nationwide. Kiffin’s offensive philosophy and the team’s ability to put up impressive numbers, especially in the passing game, made the Rebels an appealing destination for Howard.
### The Impact of Howard’s Commitment
Howard’s commitment to Ole Miss is monumental for several reasons, both on and off the field. First and foremost, it provides the Rebels with one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. With a powerful arm, athleticism, and the ability to read defenses, Howard is a prototypical modern-day quarterback who can thrive in Kiffin’s up-tempo offense. His decision adds a new level of excitement to Ole Miss football, as fans and analysts alike will now have high expectations for the program in the coming years.
On the field, Howard’s presence in the quarterback room instantly raises the competition level at Ole Miss. The Rebels have already had success in recent seasons with quarterbacks like Matt Corral, and Howard is expected to take the program to the next level. With his skill set, he can be the catalyst for Ole Miss’ continued success in the SEC. The Rebels’ offense, which has traditionally been high-powered under Kiffin’s leadership, now has a legitimate leader at the quarterback position who has the potential to make an immediate impact.
Off the field, Howard’s commitment sends a message to the rest of the recruiting world that Ole Miss is a force to be reckoned with. Kiffin has built a reputation as one of the brightest offensive minds in college football, and landing a player of Howard’s caliber reinforces that the Rebels are an up-and-coming program that can compete with the traditional powerhouses in college football.
### A Changing of the Guard
Howard’s decision is also reflective of the changing landscape of college football recruiting. With the rise of the transfer portal and the growing influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), top recruits are more likely than ever to explore new opportunities and choose schools based on fit, culture, and the chance to showcase their talents. Howard’s decommitment from Ohio State and subsequent commitment to Ole Miss is a sign that programs like the Rebels, which may not always be at the forefront of the recruiting conversation, are beginning to make noise on the national stage.
While some may see Howard’s decision as a surprise, it represents a shift in the balance of power in college football. Programs like Ole Miss, once considered underdogs, are now positioned to compete with the giants of college football, and Howard’s commitment only adds to their momentum.
### Conclusion: Welcome to the Rebels, Will Howard
The news that Will Howard has committed to Ole Miss is a game-changer for both the quarterback and the Rebels. Howard brings unmatched talent and potential to an already explosive program. As Ole Miss fans eagerly await his arrival, there’s a palpable sense of excitement around what the future holds for the Rebels. With Howard at the helm, the program is poised for even greater success in the seasons to come.
Will Howard’s decision to join the Ole Miss family is not just a personal victory for the quarterback, but also a landmark moment for Ole Miss football. The Rebels now have their quarterback of the future, and the college football world is watching closely to see what comes next.
