LOS ANGELES — The College Football Playoff is heating up, particularly with formidable squads like Oregon and Ohio State making their presence known. A key factor in their success is the experience of their starting quarterbacks, who each bring a wealth of knowledge and skill after thriving in previous programs before joining their current teams for one final collegiate campaign.
These quarterbacks are embarking on a new journey at their respective institutions, with Dillon Gabriel leading the Ducks and Will Howard at the helm for the Buckeyes. Despite being newcomers in this context, both players have extensive backgrounds, with Gabriel in his sixth season and Howard in his fifth. Gabriel has set a collegiate record with 62 starts, while together they have amassed over 3,192 passes and 230 touchdown throws prior to meeting in their much-anticipated rematch in the Rose Bowl.
Turning 24 just recently, Gabriel brings the maturity of a seasoned athlete, while Howard, at 23, is still relatively youthful. Interestingly, both quarterbacks are not among the oldest starting players in the FBS this season, highlighting the youth movement in college football despite their considerable experience. Gabriel, having previously played for both UCF and Oklahoma, embraces the evolving landscape of college athletics, where players now have the opportunity to earn substantial NIL income while maximizing their collegiate careers. Gabriel himself has gained notable recognition, as one of the Heisman Trophy hopefuls, showcasing the potential for athletes to build their profiles even if their NFL draft prospects aren’t fully realized.
“There are going to be more players taking advantage of extended eligibility,” Gabriel remarked. “If you’re faced with the choice of three years versus six years to prepare for an important opportunity, who wouldn’t choose six? More time translates to more experience and knowledge.”
However, some traditionalists express concern about these shifts, particularly regarding how records are being rewritten due to increased chances afforded by modern college football schedules. Gabriel’s breaking of the FBS total touchdowns record is a case in point; he accomplished this in his 59th start, surpassing marks set by previous players like Case Keenum, who achieved his record in fewer games and seasons.
“I understand that there’s a shift in perspectives,” Gabriel noted. “Some may feel frustrated they didn’t get to play longer. But in reality, the more individuals we have in football, the higher the level of talent and discipline we see, and it creates a richer environment for athletes.”
On the other side, Howard becomes a significant player for Ohio State, marking the program’s first substantial contribution from a transfer quarterback since the era of Justin Fields, who transferred from Georgia. Howard spent four years at Kansas State, finally securing the starting position before opting to play for the Buckeyes instead of entering the NFL draft.
“It’s a different experience for us,” said Ohio State’s coach Ryan Day. “Typically, we pride ourselves on developing our quarterbacks over time. With Will, it was clear he had the traits of a leader and a winner, backed by his success at Kansas State. This matchup has proven beneficial for both him and the program.”
Yet the pathway isn’t entirely smooth for seasoned veterans like Howard. He recognized that adapting to the new environment in Columbus came with its own set of challenges, especially during the spring as he built rapport with teammates and acclimated to the new offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly.
The Buckeyes faced obstacles along the way, but Howard managed to secure the starting role and guide the team into the CFP despite a couple of tough losses during the season.
“Experience is valuable, but we’re still in the early stages of developing our chemistry,” Howard shared. “We’ve had to invest time and effort to learn and grow as a cohesive unit.”
As both teams gear up for their pivotal match in the Rose Bowl, the stage is set for an electrifying clash featuring two quarterbacks whose journeys have shaped the landscape of college football in extraordinary ways.
