Ohio State vs. Tennessee: A Comprehensive CFP Preview and Prediction

The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) features some of the most exciting and high-profile matchups in the sport. Among the most anticipated is the clash between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Tennessee Volunteers. These two storied programs bring a rich tradition, star power, and elite talent to the table, making this one of the most intriguing matchups of the CFP.

As the Buckeyes prepare to face off against the Volunteers, we’ll break down the key elements of this game, focusing on team strengths, player matchups, coaching strategies, and potential X-factors, culminating in a prediction for what could be a thrilling showdown.

Team Overview: Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State enters the 2024 CFP with a season of promise and anticipation. Head coach Ryan Day has built a powerful and balanced team that has emerged as one of the top contenders in the country. The Buckeyes boast a stout defense, a high-powered offense, and a deep roster of talent across both sides of the ball. Ohio State finished the regular season with a 12-1 record, narrowly losing to Michigan in a high-stakes game that had playoff implications. Despite that loss, Ohio State’s body of work throughout the season made them a lock for a playoff berth.

Offense: The Playmakers

Offensively, Ohio State is a well-oiled machine, and much of its success can be attributed to the strong arm and poise of quarterback Kyle McCord. McCord has been a revelation for the Buckeyes this season, taking the reins after C.J. Stroud’s departure to the NFL. His ability to make accurate throws from the pocket and deliver deep balls has been a key factor in Ohio State’s offensive attack.

The Buckeyes’ receiving corps is one of the best in the nation. Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the most hyped prospects in college football, leads the charge. Harrison, who could be a future NFL star, is a matchup nightmare with his size, speed, and route-running ability. Complementing him are a number of talented receivers, including Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming, giving McCord a plethora of options in the passing game.

In the backfield, Ohio State has a solid running game, headlined by running back TreVeyon Henderson, who has had a standout season. His ability to both hit the hole quickly and create yards after contact makes him a key asset, especially in a playoff game where controlling the clock and field position is critical.

Defense: The Strengths

On the defensive side of the ball, Ohio State is known for its dominance up front. The defensive line is one of the best in the country, featuring several future NFL prospects, including edge rusher JT Tuimoloau. Tuimoloau has been a disruptive force all season, and his ability to pressure the quarterback will be crucial against Tennessee’s pass-heavy attack.

The Buckeyes’ secondary is also formidable, featuring playmakers like cornerback Denzel Burke, who can shut down opposing receivers. With a solid mix of pass rushers and secondary talent, Ohio State’s defense has the potential to stifle even the most explosive offenses.

Team Overview: Tennessee Volunteers

Tennessee, under head coach Josh Heupel, has emerged as one of the most electrifying programs in college football in recent seasons. The Volunteers are known for their up-tempo, high-scoring offense that has made them one of the most dangerous teams in the nation. Tennessee’s 2024 season has been a bit of a roller coaster, but their explosive playmaking ability and offensive firepower make them a dangerous opponent in the playoffs.

Offense: The Air Raid

Tennessee’s offense is built around the fast-paced, vertical passing attack that has been a hallmark of Josh Heupel’s system. Quarterback Joe Milton, who replaced Hendon Hooker, has had a solid but occasionally inconsistent season. Milton has a cannon for an arm and can throw the ball deep downfield with ease, but his accuracy and decision-making have been areas of concern at times. Nevertheless, his ability to stretch the field will be crucial in keeping Ohio State’s defense off balance.

Tennessee’s wide receiver corps is a major strength. Squirrel White, a dynamic playmaker with incredible speed, is the Vols’ top receiving threat. His ability to get behind defenses and create big plays has made him a matchup nightmare. Alongside White, Tennessee has a number of talented pass catchers who can contribute in multiple ways, including Ramel Keyton and Bru McCoy.

The Volunteers’ running game, while not as flashy as their passing attack, is serviceable. Jabari Small is a steady presence in the backfield, and his ability to churn out tough yards will be important, particularly when Tennessee looks to establish a balanced offensive attack.

Defense: Question Marks

While Tennessee’s offense is potent, their defense has been inconsistent. The Volunteers have struggled to stop the run at times, which could be a vulnerability against Ohio State’s balanced offense. Their secondary has been better than expected, with playmakers like cornerback Kamal Hadden, but they’ve still shown vulnerabilities in pass coverage.

Tennessee’s defensive line has improved throughout the season, but they will face a stiff test against Ohio State’s offensive line, which has been one of the best in the country. If Tennessee’s defense can’t create pressure on McCord and force mistakes, it could be a long day for the Volunteers.

Key Matchups

1. Ohio State’s Defensive Line vs. Tennessee’s Offensive Line

This matchup will be critical to determining the flow of the game. Ohio State’s defensive line, led by Tuimoloau, has been dominant this season. If they can get pressure on Milton and disrupt Tennessee’s passing game, it will make it difficult for the Volunteers to operate their high-paced offense. Tennessee’s offensive line has improved but will face one of the best defensive fronts they’ve seen all year.

2. Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Tennessee’s Secondary

Tennessee’s secondary will have its hands full trying to contain Marvin Harrison Jr., who has the size, speed, and hands to make big plays down the field. The Vols’ defense has given up big plays throughout the season, and Harrison is one of the best at exploiting those opportunities. If Harrison can get loose and McCord has time to find him, Ohio State could have a field day in the passing game.

3. Joe Milton’s Deep Ball vs. Ohio State’s Secondary

Milton’s ability to throw deep is both a strength and a potential weakness. He has the arm to stretch the field, but if his accuracy is off, Ohio State’s ball-hawking secondary, led by Denzel Burke, could take advantage. The Buckeyes’ defense will need to stay disciplined and not allow Tennessee’s speedy receivers to get behind them.

4. TreVeyon Henderson vs. Tennessee’s Run Defense

Although Ohio State is known for its passing attack, Henderson’s ability to run the ball effectively will be critical in this matchup. Tennessee has shown vulnerabilities against the run, and if Henderson can establish a physical presence early, it will keep Tennessee’s defense on its heels. Controlling the ground game will allow Ohio State to dictate the tempo and keep Tennessee’s offense off the field.

X-Factors

1. Ohio State’s Offensive Line

While Ohio State’s skill positions get most of the attention, their offensive line will play a pivotal role in this game. The line’s ability to protect McCord and open running lanes for Henderson will be key to keeping Tennessee’s defense off balance. If Ohio State can establish control in the trenches, it will be difficult for Tennessee to mount any significant pressure on offense.

2. Special Teams

Special teams could play an underrated role in this game. Field position and the ability to capitalize on special teams opportunities can shift momentum in critical moments. Both teams have solid special teams units, but any errors or big returns could swing the game.

Prediction

This game is shaping up to be a thrilling, high-scoring affair, with both teams possessing potent offenses and talented defenses. Ohio State’s balanced attack, led by McCord and Harrison, will likely give Tennessee’s defense fits, especially if the Buckeyes can establish a rhythm in the passing game early. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s high-powered offense, if Milton can connect on deep throws, will challenge Ohio State’s defense.

However, the key to this game will likely be Ohio State’s defense. The Buckeyes’ defensive line is one of the best in the country, and their ability to pressure Milton could disrupt Tennessee’s offense. Ohio State will also have the edge in the trenches, where their offensive line should create enough opportunities for Henderson to find running lanes.

Ultimately, Ohio State’s combination of elite playmakers, solid defense, and offensive balance will give them the edge in a high-paced, close matchup. Ohio State wins 38-31.