New Transfer QB Commit Will Howard Already Embracing Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry

Howard has already taken to referring to Michigan as the "Team Up North" just not even a full day after he announced his commitment to Ohio State.

Newly committed quarterback Will Howard seems to already be buying into the culture of the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Howard announced he would be spending the 2024 season with the Buckeyes on Thursday after entering the transfer portal from Kansas State.

The Downingtown, Pennsylvania native said during an interview with ESPN that he discussed several things with coach Day before coming to Ohio State, including the team's three-straight losses to archrival Michigan. When asked about the Buckeyes' recent success rate against the Wolverines, Howard began by correcting the reporter.

"You mean the Team Up North," Howard said. "They won't say that M word. I guess I won't be saying it either."

Howard then gave a real response to the question, saying he is more than aware of the stakes that come with Ohio State's annual meeting against Michigan.

"We definitely talked about that," Howard said. "That game means so much. The pressure is on. Beating that Team Up North is priority No. 1 on the way to the national championship and all our other goals. That's huge, and it's everything when it comes to playing for Ohio State...I know the implications and what it means to the fan base and everyone in the program. That's the Team Up North now."

Howard will most likely take over as Ohio State's starting quarterback, a role previously held by junior Kyle McCord. Sophomore Devin Brown, freshman Lincoln Kienholz and incoming freshman Air Noland will all be gunning to fill McCord's empty cleats behind center as well.