"Being surrounded by my teammates, I wouldn't want to celebrate it any other way." Shortly after the start of the fourth quarter and after Howard goes to the sideline for good with the game at hand, it is announced that he has set the all-time mark for passing touchdowns. "With all the greats to come through here, it's a blessing," Howard says. He needs five more touchdown passes to pass Ell Roberson for most in a single season. This season, he has thrown 21 touchdowns with two regular-season games, a possible Big 12 title game and bowl game still to go. ![]() Last season, he shared reps with Adrian Martinez, playing in seven games with six starts over the second half of the season, and throwing 15 touchdowns while helping lead the Wildcats to the Big 12 Championship and a berth in the Sugar Bowl. In 2021, he threw one touchdown while backing up Skylar Thompson. His eight touchdown passes set the single-season record by a freshman. In 2020, he was one of just four true freshman quarterbacks to make at least seven starts during the season. Howard's career, the ups and downs, also is legendary at K-State. He achieves the mark under the guidance of offensive coordinator Collin Klein and with College Football Hall of Fame inductee Michael Bishop inside the stadium at this game - both Heisman Trophy finalists and regarded as two of the greatest quarterbacks in school history. Howard reaches the touchdown record in 25 starts. To just have this platform, it means the world, and I'm floored. I'm just so blessed and so privileged to be in the position I am. It's crazy to think about, especially with all the stuff that I've kind of had to deal with here. I truly wouldn't be able to do this without all my guys. ![]() "I couldn't have done it without all the guys in that locker room who've caught passes from me, the defense, all my team. "It's an unbelievable honor," Howard says. Moments before Howard holds the cellphone, he speaks with reporters. The new top-10 in passing touchdown reads as follows: With a short touchdown pass to fullback Christian Moore in the second quarter of a 59-25 win over Baylor, Howard passed Josh Freeman for most touchdown passes in a career, a mark that has stood for 15 years. He might as well have been sitting on a throne. He looks up from the phone.įamiliar faces for a special moment /GRcMYlgrXU He presses a left balled-up fist to his mouth. Howard's shoulders shake as he holds the phone. "We are so proud of who you are on and off the field. "We are so happy for you on this incredible accomplishment," Maureen continues. Bob is on the left and Maureen is on the right. "Congratulations, Will," Bob and Maureen Howard say together. Malik Knowles and Garrett Oakley and Jayce Brown and Daniel Imatorbhebhe send their congratulations. You've earned this, you've worked for it. "Just want to congratulate you on becoming the all-time leader in passing TDs. I'm so proud of you, man, for the impact you've left on this team and this university will last a lifetime."ĭJ Giddens and Briley Moore offer their congratulations. I can't think of anybody else more deserving. Congratulations on breaking the Kansas State all-time passing touchdowns record. Kade Warner and Adrian Martinez and Phillip Brooks and Will Swanson offer their congratulations. It's been a long ride since we got here in 2020, a lot of ups and downs, so just wanted to wish you congratulations. "Just wanted to congratulate you on passing the all-time touchdown passing record. He instantly smiles, as a video message by close friend and tight end Ben Sinnott begins to play. At the moment, he sits as the lone player in this room, and he is handed a cellphone that he holds in both hands. Nobody in the history of Kansas State football has thrown more touchdowns, so Howard stands alone. ![]() Saturday afternoon has slipped into Saturday evening, and a couple hours have passed since he threw his 45th career touchdown pass. Will Howard sits in his stocking cap and lavender Wildcats hoodie in a purple-walled meeting room on the fourth floor of the Vanier Family Football Complex.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |