Ohio State’s Dominant Win Sets Up Anticipated Rematch with Oregon
As the fourth quarter began at the iconic Horseshoe in Columbus, Ohio, a palpable energy swept through the stands. The Ohio State faithful, sensing victory, began to chant, “We want Oregon.” It was a clear message that the Buckeyes were ready to move past their current opponent and focus on a much-anticipated rematch.
In the shadows of the stadium, Rose Bowl staffers were already preparing for the post-game celebration, readying red roses for the victorious Ohio State team. Brutus, the beloved mascot, emerged triumphantly with the first bouquet, signaling the Buckeyes’ impending victory over Tennessee.
Despite several minutes left on the clock, Ohio State’s backups were on the field, and the team had mentally shifted their focus to the looming showdown against Oregon in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal on New Year’s Day. The Buckeyes’ emphatic 42-17 victory over the Volunteers in the first round of the College Football Playoff was a statement. It set the stage for a rematch with the Ducks, who had previously edged out Ohio State 32-31 in Eugene on October 12, securing an undefeated regular season, a Big Ten championship, and the CFP’s No. 1 overall seed.
Reflecting on that October game, Ohio State had every opportunity to clinch a win. However, a controversial offensive pass interference call against star freshman wideout Jeremiah Smith pushed them out of field goal range. Quarterback Will Howard then made a puzzling decision to slide as time expired, leaving the Buckeyes stranded at the Oregon 26-yard line.
“We’ve all been looking forward to this one and for another crack at these guys,” Howard expressed, a rose stem clenched between his teeth as he congratulated teammates post-victory. “The way that last one ended doesn’t sit right with me. It still bugs me.”
Since that initial encounter with Oregon, Ohio State’s defense has transformed into a formidable force. Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel had previously thrown for 341 yards and two touchdowns, with Ohio State’s defensive front failing to sack him even once. The Ducks’ wide receivers consistently outmatched Ohio State’s cornerbacks, particularly Denzel Burke, leading to numerous big plays. However, since that game, the Buckeyes have dominated, ranking No. 1 nationally in fewest yards allowed per play (3.8), yards given up per game (234.4), and points surrendered per game (11.7).
“We’re looking forward to the opportunity because it was not a great game for us,” defensive coordinator Jim Knowles commented on the first Oregon outing. “Quite frankly, the guys got pissed off and it led to a run for us. They used that game as motivation.”
Ohio State’s offense also came out with a renewed vigor against Tennessee, following a lackluster performance in their regular-season finale, a 13-10 loss to Michigan. The Buckeyes demonstrated their potential when, as offensive coordinator Chip Kelly noted, they’re “clicking on all cylinders.”
Facing one of the SEC’s top defenses, Ohio State scored touchdowns on their first three drives. Tennessee struggled to contain Smith, who scored two touchdowns and amassed a game-high 103 receiving yards. The Volunteers also had difficulty tackling running back TreVeyon Henderson, who contributed 134 yards of offense and two scores.
“We called this game more aggressively — there’s no question about that,” coach Ryan Day stated. “But also, I think we did some things that maximized what we have in terms of our strengths and minimized our deficiencies.”
Ohio State capitalized on Howard’s abilities and the downfield passing attack by featuring the dynamic receiving duo of Smith and Emeka Egbuka, who added 81 receiving yards on five receptions.
Howard rose to the occasion, completing 24 of 29 passes for 311 yards, despite a lone interception on Ohio State’s fourth drive with the Buckeyes already leading 21-0. Howard attempted a pass to Smith at the back of the end zone, where officials could have called defensive pass interference on Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter. Instead, Tennessee’s Will Brooks intercepted the tipped ball before crashing out of bounds.
“I liked the call, I liked how aggressive we were,” Day said. “When you call the game aggressively, something like [that] happens. You have to be willing to live with it.”
The contrast between these past two games highlighted how Ohio State’s offense thrives on aggression. Coupled with a defense performing at an elite level, it’s clear why the Buckeyes are heading to Pasadena with revenge on their minds and a national championship run in their sights.
“Yeah, I’m excited, man,” Howard said. “We’re going to go out there and have some fun and let it rip.”
- Ohio State’s defense ranks No. 1 nationally in fewest yards allowed per play (3.8).
- Ohio State’s offense scored touchdowns on their first three drives against Tennessee.
- Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka are key players in Ohio State’s receiving duo.
Originally Written by: Jake Trotter
