For OSU football fans, this 11-2 season has been a rollercoaster ride. But imagine that rollercoaster times ten. That’s likely the experience for the parents of the Buckeyes starting QB, Will Howard.

From the jump, Will’s parents have been his biggest supporters, living and breathing his football journey. So, it’s no surprise that this crucial rivalry game against Michigan is a major source of anxiety for them. “This rivalry game means everything. We talk about it all the time,” Will shared. And his parents, ever the supportive pillars, are right there with him every step of the way.

Who is Will Howard’s mom?

Maureen Howard is the mother of Will Howard. Temple University awarded her a Master’s degree in physical therapy. The Magic Sleepsuit is currently owned by Maureen, who previously owned the Baby Merlin Company. You might assume that someone with no athletic background would become so well-known in CFB at such a young age. How can that be? Yes, Will Howard did make it feasible. Despite her lack of athletic experience, she supports Will on a different level.

“We knew that the college football journey has highs and lows and you have to be ready for the rollercoaster ride, so I think that prepared us—like, ‘OK, let’s do it,’” she said prior to the game versus Michigan. There will be happy times, sad times, and all points in between, as per his mom. So you can see how Maureen instills a strong work ethic and winning mentality in his OSU hero.

However, his father is just as much a part of his football adventure as his mother. You could even argue that it was he who first recognized Will’s extraordinary athletic ability.

Who is Will Howard’s dad?

Bob Howard is Will Howard’s father. Villanova University awarded him a Master’s degree in counseling psychology. He has served as vice president of M&T Bank and Mellon Bank. Along with his wife, Bob co-founded the Baby Merlin Company and developed the Magic Sleepsuit. Despite his lack of experience on the football field, he was right to identify Will as a player at such an early age.

“Two years old, he was shooting baskets in the basement, making them. We said there’s something a little different about him,” Bob stated. On top of that, his father expressed how happy he is with his son’s current status and notoriety—“But never expected this really. This is a dream. It’s been a fun ride.”

But when Will’s parents stated, “We always say to Will, you know, ‘great game.’ No matter how good the outcome is,” it really hit home. They weren’t just about the wins; they were about instilling that ‘leave it all on the field’ mentality. And Will clearly embodies that. You see it in every play. Well, this 2024 season alone, he threw for 3,171 yards and 29 touchdowns. But where did this incredible talent blossom?

Where did Howard grow up?

Will was raised in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, but was born in West Chester. His development as an athlete was greatly influenced by his upbringing in a sports-loving family that fostered his love of football. He attended football at Downingtown West High School, where he excelled and was recognized for his abilities and leadership on the field.

Then he went to Kansas State and played for four seasons. In Jan 2024, Will Howard transferred from Kansas State to OSU. And on August 15, he was announced as the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback for the 2024 season. And the rest is history.

The Buckeyes’ outstanding quarterback is currently getting ready for the Rose Bowl. As usual, his parents are always in his corner, and you can bet they’ll be cheering him on from the stands at the Rose Bowl, too.