Ohio State vs Oregon: Rose Bowl 2025 Showdown

It's a stage set perfectly at the iconic stadium known as the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, when the Ohio State Buckeyes take on the Oregon Ducks in an exciting College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup on January 1, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET. Below is a detailed look regarding this anticipated matchup:

Game Details:

* Date: Wednesday, January 1, 2025

* Time: 5:00 PM EST

* Venue: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, CA

* TV/Streaming: Live on ESPN, with options to stream.

Coaches:

Ohio State: Ryan Day, 67-10 at Ohio State. All the energizing offenses come from Day, the coach who has his job on the line after losing to Michigan but should rebound with a strong showing versus Tennessee in the first round of the CFP.

Oregon: Dan Lanning, in his third year, has guided the Ducks to a perfect 13-0 record, capturing the Big Ten title in their first season in the conference. His strategic mind has helped shape the winning run by Oregon.

Key Players:

Ohio State:

Quarterback: Will Howard, the transfer from Kansas State, has been very impressive this year, completing 72.9 percent of his passes. Other players who support the offense in its cause include the wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith.

Running Back: TreVeyon Henderson has been a workhorse, particularly in the fourth quarter, with an average of 8.6 yards per touch.

Oregon:

Quarterback: Dillon Gabriel has been the motor of the Ducks offense, completing 73.2% of his passes while contributing in very big ways with both his arm and legs.

Running Back: Jordan James had an outstanding year on the ground, topping 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns, and was the toughest back to face down.

Defense: Jordan Burch is back from injury and has added considerable strength with his 8.5 sacks this season.

Odds:

The early betting line had Oregon as a slight favorite, but at the latest reports, Ohio State comes in at 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under of around 54.5 points.

How to Win:

Ohio State:

That creative offense will need to keep this Oregon defense guessing on each and every play. Ohio State needs to make Oregon one-dimensional by stopping the run and Jordan James. The OSU defensive line has to pressure Gabriel consistently in order to disrupt the passing game.

Oregon:

What Oregon will want to do is keep its offensive effectiveness alive with the mobility of Gabriel and his acumen as a passer. They will want to make a strength-on-strength takeaway in the air to Ohio State by using its strong secondary, and to affect Howard's rhythm, pressuring him is required, which depends upon the availability of Burch. 

Last Meeting:

Oregon upset Ohio State, 32-31, in an absolute nail-biter back in October at Autzen Stadium. Oregon's quarterback completed 341 passing yards against Ohio State's defense for three total touchdowns. The close victory showcased how Oregon can win the tight ones. The game also outlined where the roots of this great victory were rooted.

What to Watch For:

Both teams boast high-powered offenses, along with defenses that have flashed brilliance-all the ingredients for another classic. Under the microscope will be the players' performances: the strategy matchup between Day and Lanning. With the stakes escalated to a playoff quarterfinal, there figures to be some strategic adjustments on both sides, possibly making for a game decided in the final moments, much like their last encounter.

For most enthusiast fans, hard-core analysts, and fervent bettors alike, the question lingers whether Ohio State can finally have its revenge or Oregon will move into the semifinals undefeated. It promises football at a very high level, with a very important stake in the development of this budding rivalry.

College Football Playoff Quarterfinals: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 1 Oregon | Game Preview

Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Oregon Ducks: The long-awaited showdown is here at last

Anticipate an exhilarating college football clash this weekend! This is the game that was waited for by everyone, the #3 Oregon Ducks will play the #2 Ohio State Buckeyes. Get ready as the action begins at Autzen Stadium, Eugene Oregon on October 12th 2024 at 730 PM ET. Get your burritos and drinks ready for the game, you're not going to miss any minute of this clash on NBC.

A Brief History

The history of Ohio State University and the University of Oregon has witnessed several face-offs. In their head-to-head record Ohio State has a slight edge over Oregon. However, the most interactive contest that fans worldwide still remember vividly remains to be their trip to 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship when Ohio State earned a victory against Oregon. And now, the stakes are set, the game will be literally another piece in their storied rivalry.

The Coaches

In 2019, Ryan Day was elevated to the Buckeyes' head coach revamping OSU’s formerly rich football program. In contrast, Dan Lanning, the head coach of the Oregon Ducks managed to learn a few tricks from his strong defense during his short time as a head coach.

Players to Watch

Amongst others, Will Howard the senior quarterback at Ohio State, is worth watching. He's at the top of the list with some impressive stats: 1,248 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions this season. Keep an eye on wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and running back Quinshon Judkins too.

Even though quarterback Dylan Gabriel plays a significant role in enhancing Oregon's offense, ensuring more than 1200 yards and 10 touchdowns, it is clear that Sewell anchors the Ducks. He will play a big role in attempting to contain Ohio State's high scoring machine.

Breaking Down the Game

Offense: Rated as one of the country’s most prolific offenses, Ohio State typically scores 46 points in a span of 60 minutes. Thanks to their ability to gain yardage through carries and passes, Ohio State holds an advantage over Oregon whose average point per game is 35.

Defense: Ohio State's defense has been stellar, allowing just 6.8 points per game, the best in the nation. Oregon is also good in defense, which allows 17 points, not very low or very high, and is ranked 18th in the country.

Special teams: While both teams have dependable kickers and return units, the performance of the special teams units tilts to Ohio State's favor this season.

The Odds

The Ohio State Buckeyes are currently a 3.5-point favorite in the tilt, with the over/under standing at 53.5 points. This reflects an evenly matched game, with the brunt of the action leaning towards Ohio State.

A Personal Story

I recall the numerous friends that I watched the action-packed 2015 National Championship game with. Everyone was one the edge of the seat waiting in anticipation for the outcome. The amount of energy in the hall was very high considering how much people waited for the final snap. I will remember that day forever in the future. This weekend's game has the potential to create similar unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts

Facing off Ohio State against Oregon is no mere collision, but a conflict of rivals in which much is at stake. Whosoever you may be, whether a supporter ready to burst with fanaticism or just a person who cannot stand missing live football, this is going to be a very interesting match. Meanwhile, get your favorite foods, find a comfortable spot, and prepare yourself for the intense action lined up.

Jeremiah Smith Shines in Ohio State Debut Against Akron

The buzz surrounding Ohio State freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was palpable before he even stepped on the field. And boy, did he make his debut with Akron!

Early Nerves, Quick Recovery

At the start of the match, one could sense thrill oozing from every corner. It was not long before Smith, who happened to be ranked as the topmost talked about recruit in the Top247, gave reason for all that hypes about him. Although he slipped straightaway while attempting his debut goal, he recovered very fast and continued with high energy results.

Making His Mark

Lined up outside, Smith faced a one-on-one against an Akron cornerback. Quarterback Will Howard, making his own debut for Ohio State, delivered a beautiful pass. Smith turned his body and made a sensational reception through coverage for Ohio State's first touchdown of the season and the first of his career. The crowd went wild, and you could see the relief and joy on Smith's face as he celebrated with his teammates.

But that was only the beginning. Smith added another touchdown soon after and finished the game with six receptions for 92 yards. He showed his ability to stretch the field, making a nice adjustment on a 45-yard completion downfield, and lined up all over the field with a flash of versatility and even once made a one-handed catch that surprised everyone.

Heartfelt Dedication

One of the most touching moments came after the game when Smith talked about his journey to Ohio State. He shared a personal story about how his late grandfather was his biggest fan and he always believed in making it big. "I felt like he was with me today," Smith said, choking back tears. "This game was for him."

Other Standout Performances

Smith’s performance wasn’t just a highlight for Ohio State. Quarterback Will Howard showed promise with his passing and on-field leadership despite being new to the team. Safety Caleb Downs, a widely touted transfer from Alabama, made a huge impact in his debut, showing off his defensive prowess with several key tackles and a crucial interception.

Smith's performance has already drawn comparisons from some of the best receivers in the country, and Ohio State has clearly found another star. As the Buckeyes look ahead to the rest of the season, fans can’t wait to see what Smith does next.

Therefore, if previously you had not shown any interest in Ohio State football, let the first appearance of Jeremiah Smith provide you with many reasons to start following it now. A lot of bonuses and incredible experiences here!