Ohio State Buckeyes seized their moment with authority as they triumphed over the Oregon Ducks 41-21 in the Rose Bowl, propelling them to the College Football Playoff semifinals. The game showcased the Buckeyes' high-octane offense and resilient defense, marking their redemption from earlier season setbacks. Ohio State, under head coach Ryan Day, entered the game fully aware of the importance of this opportunity, following previous disappointing losses during the regular season.
Quarterback Will Howard led the charge, throwing for 319 yards and three touchdown passes, including two to impressive freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith. This performance came as no surprise after Howard expressed his determination for revenge against Oregon, stating, "We came out and we played angry and it showed." Ohio State's dynamic start included 34 unanswered points, stunning the Ducks and reasserting their dominance.
Ohio State quickly established their offensive prowess, with their first drive needing just three plays for Howard to connect with Smith for a speedy 45-yard touchdown. The Buckeyes put the Ducks on their heels early as they continued to push forward offensively, scoring on six of their first seven drives, all the way to the half.
Not only did Howard shine but running back TreVeyon Henderson delivered as well, rushing for 94 yards and scoring twice. His explosive 66-yard touchdown run served to cement the Buckeyes' control of the game, making it 31-0.
Even though Oregon managed to score right before halftime, with Dillon Gabriel throwing for two touchdowns, their efforts were dwarfed by the sheer dominance displayed by Ohio State's offense and their formidable defense, which recorded eight sacks against the Ducks. "We really didn’t have the ability to stop them," Oregon’s coach Dan Lanning admitted post-game, reflecting on Ohio State's preparations and execution.
The Buckeyes ended Oregon’s 14-game winning streak, and the win is credited as Ohio State’s largest margin of victory over the number one team, reinforcing their status as serious candidates for the national title. This win is especially significant as they prepare to face Texas, who advanced past Arizona State after double overtime.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, acknowledging Ohio State's strengths, declared the Longhorns to be the "massive" underdogs heading to the Cotton Bowl. Sarkisian emphasized the challenge posed by Ohio State's roster, which features standout players like Smith and Egbuka, indicating the level of difficulty the Longhorns will face. "We're going to need everything we've got to try to win this game," he stressed.
The Buckeyes’ offense has been nothing short of formidable throughout the playoff; they have combined for 83 points with average victory margins of 23 points, reinforcing their position as frontrunners for the championship. Howard’s performance has been particularly noteworthy, as he seems to be hitting his stride at the right moment, showcasing both maturity and skill against tough competition.
Jeremiah Smith’s contributions have been significant as well. Egbuka praised Smith's adaptability and skill level, comparing him favorably to former Buckeye star Jaxon Smith-Njigba. “He’s very special talent,” said Egbuka, encapsulating the excitement surrounding Smith's future potential.
Looking forward, the Buckeyes are set to face Texas on January 10 for the Cotton Bowl semifinals, and both teams are preparing for what should be another blockbuster matchup. Ohio State's recent performances set high expectations, and there will be much at stake as they seek to bolster their position for the national title game.
Ohio State's dominant showing against Oregon not only marked their redemption but has raised questions about other teams’ chances against them. While Texas enters as the remaining SEC representative, they will need their best game to compete with the momentum Ohio State has generated through the playoffs.
The dynamic clash between the Longhorns and the Buckeyes is awaited with much anticipation. Texas will need to leverage its strengths to counter Ohio State's powerful offense if they hope to advance to the national title game later this month. The stakes are high, and the outcome might shift the narrative of the entire playoff picture.
Both teams have shown resilience as they push for college football's ultimate prize, building up excitement for fans nationwide. The Cotton Bowl is poised to be another chapter of thrilling playoff action, making it clear the College Football Playoff has effectively showcased the top talents of college football this season.