The Leap | Athlete Stories

The one story only they can tell. The Leap sits down with college athletes and coaches, going past the box score to the moment everything changed — unedited and unaired until now, in their own words. New interviews weekly on YouTube @theleapmediaco.

Will Howard on Perseverance, Faith, and Leading Kansas State to a Big 12 Championship

S1 E3 • Jun 20, 2026 • 22 mins

Will Howard shares his journey from recruitment and injuries to committing to Kansas State. He discusses his early challenges, becoming the backup quarterback, and stepping up as a starter. Will reflects on the struggles and self-doubt he faced during his sophomore year, choosing to stay at Kansas State instead of transferring. He highlights his breakthrough performance against Oklahoma State and the lessons learned. The episode delves into Will's confidence, faith, and mentoring role with younger players. He also talks about overcoming personal loss, feeling a greater power during the Big 12 championship, and his pre-game rituals for maintaining calm and focus.

Key Points

Will Howard's journey at Kansas State was marked by significant challenges, including injuries, doubts, and moments of feeling unprepared, but he ultimately found strength in his faith and perseverance.
His decision to stay at K State despite considering a transfer was driven by a desire to bet on himself and prove his capabilities, leading to a pivotal role in winning the Big 12 Championship.
Howard's faith, particularly the connection he felt with his late grandmother, played a crucial role in his mental and emotional resilience, helping him navigate the ups and downs of his athletic career.

Speakers

Will Howard

Guest • 96%

Grant Gurtin

Host • 4%

Chapters

0:00	Early recruitment, injury setbacks, and committing to Kansas State
2:20	First experiences and early challenges at Kansas State
3:51	Competing for and becoming the backup quarterback
5:20	Stepping up unexpectedly as a starter
6:10	Sophomore year struggles, self-doubt, and new competition
8:32	Choosing to stay and compete instead of transferring
9:45	Breakthrough performance against Oklahoma State
11:24	Lessons learned and ongoing challenges
13:22	Building intrinsic confidence and faith
14:52	Mentoring younger players, including Avery Johnson
16:16	Connection with faith and overcoming personal loss
19:18	Feeling a greater power during the Big 12 championship
21:16	Pre-game rituals for calm and focus

Transcript

Loading transcript...

- / -