The decisions of Buford and Reynold dictated what Howard had to deal with.

Howard's job on July 1 was to protect 1st Corps flank against Ewell's Troops. And as I said, it was Howard that had the foresight to occupy Cemetery Hill with his reserve rather than deploy them. Had he committed his reserve to the battle it may have changed the battle and it may not have. But it did secure the High Ground which proved to be the key to the overall battle.