Skyler Howard is a name that rings familiar to many college football fans, especially those who closely followed the NCAA landscape during his active years. Known for his tenacity and impressive performance on the field, Howard carved out a reputation as a resilient and skilled quarterback. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Skyler Howard’s college football journey, his stats, and his impact on the teams he played for, particularly West Virginia University.
Skyler Howard was born on November 6, 1994, in Fort Worth, Texas. His passion for football was evident from a young age, as he spent countless hours honing his skills. Howard attended Brewer High School, where he played as a quarterback and quickly made a name for himself with his leadership qualities and strong arm.
Despite his talent, Howard faced skepticism due to his height, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, which was considered short for a quarterback. Nevertheless, his determination and work ethic helped him overcome these obstacles, setting the stage for his college football career.
After high school, Howard began his college football journey at Riverside City College in California. He spent the 2013 season there, where he showcased his abilities by throwing for over 3,100 yards and 33 touchdowns. His performance caught the attention of several Division I programs, eager to bolster their quarterback roster.
Howard’s time at Riverside not only polished his skills but also gave him the confidence to compete at a higher level. His success at junior college paved the way for his transfer to West Virginia University, where he would make a significant impact.
Transition and Early Challenges
In 2014, Skyler Howard joined the West Virginia Mountaineers. Initially, he was a backup quarterback, learning the ropes and adjusting to the pace of Division I football. However, his persistence and adaptability soon earned him a starting position.
Howard faced numerous challenges during his transition, including learning a new playbook and adapting to the higher level of competition. Nevertheless, his dedication and resilience enabled him to rise to the occasion.
Key Stats and Achievements
Skyler Howard’s time at West Virginia was marked by impressive stats and memorable moments. During the 2015 season, he threw for over 3,100 yards, completing 54.8% of his passes with 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. His ability to extend plays with his legs was also notable, as he rushed for 502 yards and scored six rushing touchdowns.
In 2016, Howard continued to excel, passing for 3,328 yards with 26 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His completion rate improved to 60.8%, and he rushed for an additional 463 yards, scoring 10 rushing touchdowns. These stats highlight his versatility and ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground.
Memorable Games
One of Howard’s most memorable performances came in the 2016 Cactus Bowl against Arizona State. In a thrilling shootout, Howard led the Mountaineers to a 43-42 victory, throwing for 532 yards and five touchdowns. His performance earned him the Cactus Bowl MVP award and solidified his legacy at West Virginia.
Another standout moment was West Virginia’s victory against Texas Tech in 2015, where Howard threw for 318 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and lead his team to victory.
Skyler Howard’s impact on West Virginia football extended beyond the stats and victories. His leadership and work ethic set a standard for future players, and his story of perseverance inspired many. Despite facing doubts about his height and ability, Howard proved that determination and hard work could overcome any obstacle.
His success also helped raise the profile of West Virginia’s football program, attracting talented recruits and bolstering the team’s reputation in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
After graduating from West Virginia, Howard pursued professional opportunities in football. He went undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, but he didn’t let that deter him. Howard briefly played for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL and later explored opportunities in the Canadian Football League and the XFL.
Howard also ventured overseas, playing for the Obic Seagulls in Japan’s X-League. His passion for the game and willingness to explore new opportunities showcase his love for football and his commitment to pursuing his dreams, regardless of the challenges.
Skyler Howard’s journey as a college football quarterback is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of believing in oneself. From his early days in Texas to his standout performances at West Virginia, Howard’s story is one of overcoming odds and leaving a lasting impact on those around him.
As a quarterback, Howard demonstrated that success in football isn’t solely about physical attributes but also about heart, determination, and the ability to inspire others. His legacy at West Virginia continues to be remembered by fans and players alike, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through perseverance and passion.
Through his journey, Skyler Howard has shown that the path to success may not always be straightforward, but with dedication and resilience, anything is possible. Whether on the field or in life, Howard’s story is an inspiring example of what it means to chase one’s dreams and make a lasting impact.“`
