Who Will Win Ohio State vs. Tennessee? Current CFP Projections and Odds
As the 2024 college football season enters its final stretch, one of the most exciting matchups on the horizon is a potential clash between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Tennessee Volunteers. These two elite programs have established themselves as perennial powerhouses in college football, and their impending showdown in the College Football Playoff (CFP) or a high-profile bowl game has fans buzzing with anticipation. With both teams having dynamic rosters and strong seasons, this game promises to be a thrilling contest with major CFP implications.
In this article, we will explore the current College Football Playoff projections, team analysis, and what the odds say about this highly anticipated matchup between Ohio State and Tennessee. Will Ohio State’s defense overpower Tennessee’s high-octane offense? Or will the Volunteers’ explosive attack lead them to victory against the Buckeyes’ powerful squad? Let’s take a closer look at these teams and their paths to the College Football Playoff.
Ohio State Buckeyes: A Contender in the CFP Picture
Ohio State enters this season as one of the top teams in the nation, consistently ranking in the top five of most major polls. With a rich football tradition, including multiple national championships, the Buckeyes are no strangers to postseason success. Their dominance on both sides of the ball has been evident throughout the season.
Offense: Offensively, Ohio State has one of the most potent attacks in college football. Quarterback Kyle McCord, in his second year as the starter, has shown significant growth, managing the game with poise and making timely throws. The Buckeyes also boast an elite receiving corps led by Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the top wide receivers in the country. Harrison’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Running back TreVeyon Henderson is another key player for Ohio State, providing balance to the offense with his explosive running ability.
Defense: Ohio State’s defense is where they have truly set themselves apart this season. The defensive line, led by emerging stars like J.T. Tuimoloau, is one of the best in college football. The defensive line’s ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses has been a key factor in Ohio State’s success. Additionally, the Buckeyes’ secondary is elite, with experienced cornerbacks who excel in both coverage and physicality. The team’s defensive schemes are well-coordinated, and head coach Ryan Day has emphasized creating turnovers and limiting big plays.
CFP Projections and Odds: Ohio State is firmly in the mix for a CFP berth. With a strong record in the Big Ten, including victories over ranked opponents, the Buckeyes’ chances of making the playoff are high. As of now, sportsbooks are placing Ohio State among the top four teams with odds of +250 to make the CFP Championship game. While they face stiff competition from teams like Michigan and Georgia, Ohio State is a legitimate contender for a spot in the final four.
Tennessee Volunteers: The Underdog with a Dangerous Offense
Tennessee has rapidly risen through the ranks in recent seasons, fueled by the high-powered offense orchestrated by head coach Josh Heupel. The Volunteers have one of the most exciting offenses in college football, but questions about their defense and consistency have kept them from being labeled as a surefire CFP team—at least until now.
Offense: At the heart of Tennessee’s success is their offense, led by quarterback Joe Milton III. Milton, a transfer from Michigan, has developed into a dynamic dual-threat quarterback capable of making big plays with both his arm and his legs. His cannon arm allows him to launch deep balls down the field, while his mobility makes him a dangerous weapon when plays break down. Tennessee’s offense is built around speed and space, with wide receivers like Squirrel White and Bru McCoy providing deep threats. Running back Jabari Small also contributes to the ground game, providing balance to their attack.
What sets Tennessee apart from many other high-powered offenses is their up-tempo, no-huddle style, which keeps defenses on their heels and minimizes their ability to make adjustments. The Vols have consistently been able to score quickly, putting immense pressure on opposing teams to match their pace.
Defense: While Tennessee’s offense is often the center of attention, the Volunteers’ defense has shown improvements under defensive coordinator Tim Banks. Players like linebacker Aaron Beasley and defensive lineman Tyree West have been key contributors, providing pressure on the quarterback and improving the secondary’s ability to defend against both the pass and the run. However, Tennessee’s defense is still considered a work in progress, especially against teams with strong, balanced offenses. They have struggled at times to get stops in crucial moments, which is a major factor in their underdog status.
CFP Projections and Odds: Tennessee is still very much in the hunt for a CFP spot, but their road is more complicated. They play in the SEC, which is arguably the toughest conference in college football, meaning every game is a test. However, if Tennessee can continue their offensive dominance while improving defensively, they could secure a spot in the CFP. Currently, the Volunteers have odds of +500 to make the playoff, which reflects their current status as a solid but not overwhelming contender. If they can notch some signature wins in the SEC, their CFP chances will improve dramatically.
A Breakdown of the Potential Matchup
Should Ohio State and Tennessee meet in the College Football Playoff or another postseason game, it would be an intriguing clash of styles. Ohio State’s defense would face a huge test against Tennessee’s high-octane offense. The Buckeyes’ ability to disrupt quarterbacks and contain explosive plays will be critical, as Tennessee thrives on deep shots and fast-paced play. If Ohio State can slow down the tempo and force Milton into uncomfortable situations, they could dominate the game.
On the other hand, Tennessee’s offense is built to overwhelm defenses with speed and unpredictability. If they can establish a rhythm and get the ball into the hands of their playmakers, they could put Ohio State on their heels. The game will likely come down to which team can control the tempo. Ohio State would prefer to play a slower, more methodical game, while Tennessee will aim to create chaos with quick drives and big plays.
Key Factors:
- Quarterback Play: McCord vs. Milton will be a crucial battle. Both quarterbacks have the ability to change the game, and their performance could determine the outcome.
- Defensive Dominance vs. Offensive Firepower: Ohio State’s defense will need to keep up with Tennessee’s fast-paced offense, while the Vols’ defense will have to find a way to slow down Ohio State’s skilled playmakers.
- Turnovers and Mistakes: Both teams have shown that turnovers can be the difference between victory and defeat. The team that protects the ball better will have a major advantage.
