The stage is set for what could be one of the most thrilling matchups of the college football season as the Ohio State Buckeyes (No. 6) prepare to face off against the top-ranked Oregon Ducks (No. 1) at the 2025 Rose Bowl on January 1. This College Football Playoff quarterfinal promises to be more than just another game; it’s about redemption, rivalry, and historical significance.
Ohio State enters the Rose Bowl following their impressive 42-17 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers, showcasing their strength on both offense and defense. The Buckeyes, under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, racked up 317 passing yards and 156 rushing yards against Tennessee. Defensively, they held the Volunteers to just 256 total yards, reaffirming their status as one of the best defensive teams nationwide.
On the other side, the Ducks also bring momentum, having just secured the Big Ten Championship by defeating the then-No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions 45-37. With their undefeated record and the No. 1 seed, Oregon has their eyes on not only winning this matchup but also potentially claiming their first-ever College Football Playoff Championship.
This Rose Bowl rematch stands out as it is not only about team pride; it is about overcoming the ghosts of past encounters. Earlier this season, on October 12, Oregon edged out Ohio State with a nail-biting 32-31 victory at Autzen Stadium. That game was memorable for its intense back-and-forth action, which culminated with Ohio State unable to pull off a field goal with the clock running out.
“That game's still on our minds,” said Ryan Day at practice this week, emphasizing their desire for redemption. “We can’t let what happened back then overshadow our focus. This is about moving forward and seizing this opportunity.”
While the Buckeyes aim to avenge their earlier defeat, they will face challenges against Oregon’s skilled roster. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel remains the Ducks' centerpiece, having been recognized as one of the top players in college football. Gabriel, recently voted as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, has maintained his focus on team success, dismissing personal accolades. “If I wanted individual awards, I would have played tennis or golf,” he commented, underscoring his dedication to winning.
Ohio State must also contend with Oregon’s explosive offense led by Gabriel and backed by star receivers like Tez Johnson, Evan Stewart, and running back Jordan James, who racked up impressive yardage and scoring throughout the season. James, in their previous encounter, was instrumental, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring once against the Buckeyes.
Oregon's head coach, who has described this matchup as “a chance to solidify our legacy,” recognizes the significance of competing against such formidable opponents. “We know they are going to bring their best,” he said. “But we’re ready for the challenge.”
The Buckeyes, meanwhile, have been challenged by their earlier defeats this season, including their loss to Michigan. That slip-up not only knocked them out of contention for the Big Ten Championship but also ignited their will to conquer the playoffs. The motivation is palpable within the team, with their performance against Tennessee serving as both resurgence and declaration.
The stakes for this game are astronomical. The winner will advance to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff, facing off against either Texas or Arizona State. But for both teams, it’s about more than just progressing through the playoff bracket; it’s about legacy, history, and the fierce season rivalry between the Buckeyes and Ducks.
Betting projections have made Ohio State slight favorites with the spread sitting at -2.5, opening opportunities for fans to engage with the action surrounding the game. The total points over/under is currently set at 53.5, adding another layer of excitement to this high-stakes encounter.
The anticipation is palpable, as fans from both teams prepare for the showdown at the Rose Bowl, also known as the Granddaddy of Them All, held annually at the iconic venue of Pasadena, California. The Marching Band and cheerleader spirit will paint the stadium with vibrant colors of both teams, signaling the growing excitement surrounding the event.
Tickets are already topping the charts, with prices reaching as high as $866 for attractive viewing spots near the 50-yard line, reflecting the importance and popularity of this prestigious bowl game. For many viewers, the chance to witness Ohio State and Oregon battle it out is once-in-a-lifetime.
With both teams poised, the culmination of their hard work will manifest on January 1. Fans anticipate not only the intensity of the game but also the sheer joy of witnessing college football at its finest. Whether it will be the Ducks soaring to continued success or the Buckeyes claiming their rematch remains the question on everyone's mind.
