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.

De'zie Jones Commits to Ohio State: A Game-Changer for the Buckeyes

WAYNE, New Jersey — In a move that has the Buckeye state buzzing, De’zie Jones, an electric wide receiver from DePaul Catholic, has officially committed to Ohio State. The 5-foot-10 dynamo is set to shine on the gridiron in Columbus, and fans already picture him blanketing the field in grey and scarlet.

The Decision

Jones had no shortage of suitors. Florida, Penn State, Michigan State and Rutgers all competed for his talent. But when it came down to it, the horseshoe attraction proved irresistible. The Buckeyes’ tradition, passionate fan base and championship pedigree prevailed. Plus, who can resist the siren call of the Shoe on a crisp autumn Saturday?

 

A Playmaker Extraordinaire

What makes Jones so special? Let's break it down:

1. Speed Demon: Jones has jets. His acceleration off the line is like a Ferrari hitting the Autobahn. Cornerbacks beware—you won't catch him once he hits that second gear.

2. Route Savvy: He's got a PhD in route-running. Whether it's a crisp slant, a double move, or a deep post, Jones knows how to create separation. Defensive backs will be left scratching their heads.

3. Hands of Glue: Sticky fingers, they call it. Jones snatches balls out of thin air like a magician pulling rabbits from a hat. Expect jaw-dropping catches and circus grabs.

4. Yards After Catch: Jones isn't content with just catching the ball. He turns short gains into explosive plays. His ability to make defenders miss in open space is downright unfair.

The Impact

Buckeye faithful, get ready. Jones is a game-changer. With his commitment, Ohio State's 2025 recruiting class vaults to the top nationally. Ryan Day must be grinning somewhere, knowing that he's got a future star in the making.

So, what's next? Jones will don the scarlet helmet, lace up those silver cleats, and step onto the hallowed turf of Ohio Stadium. The Shoe will roar, and De'zie Jones will dance. Touchdowns will rain down like confetti, and the Buckeyes' faithful will chant his name.

Welcome to the family, De'zie. The Horseshoe awaits, and the future is bright. 🌟🏈

On National Letter of Intent Signing Day 2024, Ohio State added a dynamic playmaker to its roster in the commitment of four-star wide receiver De'zie Jones from Wayne, New Jersey. Impressed by the coaching staff and the program's precedent with developing wide receivers, Jones chose Ohio State after having a few other top programs in pursuit of his services while attending DePaul Catholic High School. Productive and able to get open consistently, Jones had a great senior season, recording 64 receptions for 1,069 yards and 15 touchdowns. His commitment is a big boost to Ohio State's 2025 recruiting class and adds depth to their receiving corps.
 

 

Dijon Johnson 2023 Ohio State Corner Back

The 4-star corner back prospect from Ohio State is one of the top recruits in the country. Dijon Johnson a big, physical presence (6'2", 175 lbs.) on the field that can make an immediate impact for any team. Johnson is a highly sought-after prospect that will be a key piece of the Buckeye's future success. Steve Spurrior Jr recruited him for Mississippi State while Brent Venables and Jay Valai recruited him for Oklahoma and Tim Walton and Tony Alford pursued him for the Buckeyes.

 

The latest on four-star corner back Dijon Johnson

Dijon Johnson is one of the top corner backs in the country and he's just made his commitment to Ohio State official. Johnson is a versatile player who can line up all over the field, and he's expected to make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes. He will join a team with only 6 scholarship corner-backs on the roster and only two other defensive backs in the 2023 class, Malik Hartford and Cedrick Hawkins.

What Dijon Johnson's commitment means for Ohio State

Dijon Johnson's commitment is a huge win for Ohio State, as they beat out some of the top programs in the country for his services. Johnson is a talented player who will add depth and talent to an already strong Ohio State team. He had offers from Ohio State, Oklahoma, Alabama, USC, and Auburn, in addition to 31 others.

How Dijon Johnson fits into Ohio State's plans

Dijon Johnson is a perfect fit for what Ohio State wants to do on defense. He has the size, speed, and athleticism to be a disruptive force in the middle of the field, and he'll be a key piece of the Buckeyes' defensive plans going forward.

The 5-star athlete from Wharton Tampa, Florida

Dijon Johnson is a 4-star athlete out of Wharton Tampa, Florida. He's ranked as the #46th athlete in the state of Florida and the #29 corner back in the country. He's now a big Buckeye fan, and he's excited to be able to play for the new defensive coaching staff that Ryan Day has put into place.

An impressive football resume

Johnson has an impressive football resume. He was an All-State selection, had 6 interceptions, 4 touchdowns for a 9-3 team that went into the third round of the Florida playoffs. As a sophomore he was a two way player for Tampa Wharton.

A versatile player who can make an impact on both sides of the ball

2023 CB Johnson is a versatile player who can make an impact on both sides of the ball. He played receiver and defensive back in high school, and he's been touted as a potential star at either position. He will play corner back for the Buckeyes in 2023.

Dijon Johnson Crystal Ball

Johnson had all Ohio State predictions leading up to his commitment including Bill Kurelic, Andrew Ivins, Steve Wiltfong, Parker Thune, Justin Thind, and Zach Blostein all coming out on April 16th and 17th. In addition, Rivals analyst Zach Carpenter, Josh McCuistion, Richard Schnyderite, and Kyle Kelly all felt Johnson was going to Ohio State the day he made the announcement.