The matchup touted as one of the most anticipated games of the College Football Playoff (CFP) season will pit the Oregon Ducks against the Ohio State Buckeyes at the iconic Rose Bowl on January 1, 2025. This clash will not only be significant for its playoff ramifications but also for its historical rivalry, as it marks the latest chapter of their competitive narrative.
Oregon enters the Rose Bowl riding high on their perfect 13-0 record, which has positioned them as the top seed in the 2024-25 College Football Playoff bracket. The Ducks secured their place with strong performances throughout the season, including their recent 45-37 victory over Penn State to clinch the Big Ten Championship title on December 7. Notably, this is Oregon's first appearance in the CFP since the inaugural season, where they faced Ohio State back in the 2014-2015 Championship Game.
Head Coach Dan Lanning's squad has showcased impressive consistency, boasting the longest active winning streak of 14 games dating back to last season. The key players to watch include Heisman Trophy finalist Dillon Gabriel, who ranks high nationally with his passing efficiency and is poised to lead his team not just to victory, but to set program records. Gabriel's dual-threat capabilities make him one of the more dangerous quarterbacks the Buckeyes will face this season.
Facing off against them, the Buckeyes come off their dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee, showcasing their own offensive prowess and determination to right past wrongs. Head Coach Ryan Day’s team, seeded eighth, will seek redemption from their prior defeat to Oregon, which ended with a narrow 32-31 result on October 12. This preceding game remains etched as one of the most thrilling encounters of the season, characterized by furious lead changes and standout performances from both sides.
The stakes for this rematch are high, especially for Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, who has been under significant scrutiny after his costly slip at the end of their previous encounter with Oregon. He expressed gratitude for the chance to redeem himself, stating, "The way the last game ended doesn't sit right with me. It still bugs me. And I'm just thankful for the opportunity to get another crack at them."
Ohio State's chances hinge not only on Howard’s performance but also on their defense needing to step up significantly. The Buckeyes must address their defensive lapses, particularly from their cornerbacks who struggled against Oregon’s explosive offenses earlier this season. Players like Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun are expected to rise to the occasion if Ohio State hopes to contain Gabriel’s aerial attacks.
While predictions for the Rose Bowl matchup vary, the consensus remains firm at the tightness of the contest. Ohio State is currently favored by 2.5 points, but the Ducks’ consistent form and explosive capabilities are tough to overlook. Predictions from local analysts include scores such as Oregon 38, Ohio State 35, highlighting the anticipated nature of this upcoming clash.
Adding to the intrigue, history indicates this will be the 12th meeting between the two teams, with Ohio State leading the series at 9-2. The stage for their recent rivalry has evolved, with Oregon claiming pivotal victories over the Buckeyes, including their initial win back on September 11, 2021, and the recent triumph on October 12, pouring fuel on the fire for the upcoming game.
Historic moments also lend the game its added weight, and with Oregon aiming for their fifth Rose Bowl win and both teams seeking not just victory but to make statements for the national championship, the Rose Bowl promises to deliver once more.
Fans of both teams will be tuned to ESPN on New Year’s Day at 2 PM PT, ensuring this monumental heavyweight bout will capture College Football fans’ attention across the nation.
Victory here will not only advance the winner to the semifinals slated for January 10 at the Cotton Bowl but will also set the tone for their playoff run. It's now down to execution, strategy, and perhaps, who can capitalize on the pressure.
