Social media expresses worry over Ohio State quarterback Will Howard's unconventional hand injury.

In the first half of the CFP semifinal, a significant swelling developed on Howard's hand.

Social media expresses worry over Ohio State quarterback Will Howard's unconventional hand injury.
Social media expresses worry over Ohio State quarterback Will Howard's unconventional hand injury.

Will Howard, Ohio State's quarterback, claims his non-throwing hand is in good condition after social media users observed an unusual-looking lump on his hand during the Buckeyes' victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl on Friday night.

During the first half of the game, Howard, 23, seemed to suffer an injury to his left hand.

Will Howard pass
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) passes against Texas during the second half of the Cotton Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.  (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)

According to CBS Sports, the knot on his hand resulted from him hitting his hand on the helmet of a Longhorns player.

The bizarre-looking injury sparked a frenzy on social media as the lump appeared to enlarge.

During the game, ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe stated that Howard did not receive any treatment for the lump. After Ohio State's win, ESPN's Jake Trotter reported that Howard told him his hand is "just fine."

Will Howard hand
The hands of Will Howard, #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes, in the second quarter against the Texas Longhorns during the Goodyear Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium on January 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.  (Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

Howard was 24-of-33 passing for 289 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

In his first season with the Buckeyes, Howard has given Ohio State a chance to win its first national title in over a decade.

Quinshon Judkins celebrates
Quinshon Judkins, #1 of the Ohio State Buckeyes, celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown in the first quarter against the Texas Longhorns during the Goodyear Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium on January 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.  (Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

The national championship game on Jan. 20 in Atlanta will feature the Buckeyes taking on Notre Dame.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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by Paulina Dedaj

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