With Ohio State and Notre Dame set to face off in the National Championship, tensions are rising, and the trash talk is already heating up. Former Notre Dame quarterback Malik Zaire has taken aim at Ohio State QB Will Howard, igniting a war of words on social media.
“All the great QBs Ohio State has had the last 15 yrs and Howard is def the worst one by far and ostate fans are trying to convince me that he’s gonna lead them to the chip?!?! Lmao ok,” Zaire posted on X (formerly Twitter). “I’d even take the OG Jalin Marshall at QB before Howard!!!!!!!”
Zaire, who spent three seasons at Notre Dame, hasn’t been shy about his allegiances, firing off multiple posts in support of his alma mater. However, his comments didn’t sit well with former Ohio State quarterback and national champion Cardale Jones, who fired back in defense of his team.
I’m willing to bet some money on the game if you are. @MalikZaire8 nothing crazy, just to keep things interesting https://t.co/XxU71gc5lh
— Cardale Jones (@CJ1two) January 13, 2025
Cardale Jones Defends the Buckeyes
Jones, a key figure in Ohio State’s 2014 National Championship run, responded with confidence in Will Howard and the Buckeyes’ chances in the upcoming game. While he hasn’t directly engaged with Zaire’s comments, his belief in Ohio State’s ability to capture its first title in a decade is clear.
Zaire Doubles Down on Criticism
Zaire didn’t stop at one jab. He took another shot at Howard, challenging his performance in the championship game.
“I’d take the under on whatever Will Howard’s stat line is. And any 2nd half bets available! And any realistic bet you want! #IrishForAllTheMarbles,” Zaire tweeted.
A Tougher Road for the Buckeyes
Ohio State’s journey to the National Championship has been grueling. The Buckeyes earned their spot with hard-fought wins over Texas (28-14), Tennessee, and Oregon. In contrast, Notre Dame faced a less daunting path, defeating Indiana, Georgia (playing with a backup quarterback), and Penn State to secure their place in the title game.
Despite the war of words, neither team will lack motivation heading into the matchup. At this stage, with a national title on the line, players on both sides are focused on execution rather than bulletin board material.
The Countdown to Atlanta
Ohio State and Notre Dame are set to clash on January 20 at 7:30 p.m. ET in Atlanta, Georgia. With a week to go, the anticipation is building, and fans can expect even more heated exchanges as the big game approaches.
For Will Howard and the Buckeyes, the best response to the critics will come on the field. As for Zaire, he’ll be hoping his Fighting Irish can back up his words in what promises to be an epic showdown.
