Oregon and Ohio State have fielded veteran quarterbacks in the form of Dillon Gabriel and Will Howard, whose extensive experience has become a key factor in their teams’ success leading up to the Rose Bowl match.
Dillon Gabriel, Oregon’s quarterback, is now in his sixth season and playing for his third major program after starting a record 62 games. Despite facing various challenges throughout his career, his extensive experience gives him an edge crucial to Oregon’s current performance. Meanwhile, Will Howard, representing Ohio State, is in his fifth year at his second collegiate institution. Between them, the two quarterbacks have managed to throw 3,192 collegiate passes for 230 touchdowns before their much-anticipated Rose Bowl face-off.
Gabriel, who recently celebrated his 24th birthday, has achieved significant milestones, including breaking the FBS record for total touchdowns. Originally a player for UCF and Oklahoma, Gabriel has taken advantage of the evolving frameworks within college sports, such as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, allowing players to remain in college longer and gain experience rather than enter the NFL draft prematurely. He argues that extended college careers are beneficial for personal growth and development as well as team dynamics.
Howard, at 23, is Ohio State’s first major transfer quarterback since Justin Fields, having previously played four years at Kansas State. Coach Ryan Day of Ohio State emphasized Howard’s qualities, such as leadership and previous success, that make him a suitable fit for the Buckeyes. Howard overcame initial challenges during his integration into the new team and ultimately clinched the starting quarterback position, even leading them into the College Football Playoff despite setbacks in regular season games.
Both quarterbacks embody the recent trend of well-traveled, experienced players bolstering their teams by utilizing years of collegiate play to refine their skills, a phenomenon becoming commonplace in elite college football. Gabriel highlights that while some traditionalists criticize the extended careers, more opportunities result in better players and more developed individuals.
Howard also admits the initial hurdles of connecting with new teammates and adjusting to a new system under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Nevertheless, his perseverance paid off, and his experience ultimately became an asset as he and his team gelled over time, showcasing their hard work through their playoff berth.
As this season’s College Football Playoff anticipates an exciting showdown between Oregon and Ohio State, the roles of veteran quarterbacks like Dillon Gabriel and Will Howard underline the evolving strategies in college football. Their journeys emphasize the importance of experience, adaptability, and leadership in achieving team success.
Source: News4jax
