KNOXVILLE, TN - July 20, 2022 - Running back Jabari Small #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers portrait taken during 2022 Football Photo Day in Knoxville, TN. Photo By Andrew Ferguson/Tennessee Athletics
Columbus, Ohio, is buzzing with energy as an “orange invasion” takes over the city ahead of the much-anticipated Saturday showdown between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Tennessee Volunteers. The teams are set to clash at Ohio Stadium in the opening round of the College Football Playoff, marking a significant milestone in college football history.
Ranked No. 6, the Buckeyes will face off against the No. 7 Volunteers in what promises to be a thrilling contest. This matchup has drawn fans from across the country, filling the streets of Columbus with a blend of scarlet, gray, and the distinctive orange of Tennessee. Excitement is palpable, as supporters eagerly await a game that could define the season for both teams.
On Friday, a group of Tennessee team managers stopped for a quick bite near Ohio Stadium. Among them was Bennett Obenour, who has a unique connection to both teams. Although Obenour grew up in Columbus, his loyalty has always been with the Volunteers. His love for Tennessee football was nurtured by family members in Knoxville, a city deeply rooted in the Volunteer tradition. Today, Obenour works for the team in Tennessee, and this playoff game has brought him back to his hometown, blending nostalgia with fierce team spirit.
Obenour shared his thoughts with WOSU, expressing confidence in the Volunteers’ current form. “We’re excited. The Vols are on fire right now,” he said enthusiastically. For him, the significance of the game extends beyond its playoff implications. “I get to be part of the first-ever home playoff game held here in Columbus. It’s a special moment, and we’re ready to bring our best tomorrow,” he added.
Both Ohio State and Tennessee boast impressive records this season, with each team entering the game at 10-2. The evenly matched statistics have set the stage for a hard-fought battle. “It’s going to be a close one,” Obenour admitted. “Both the Buckeyes and the Vols are strong teams, and it’s going to come down to who performs better on the day.”
For Tennessee, the stakes are particularly high. The Volunteers have not claimed a national championship or an SEC title since 1998, a drought their fans are eager to end. A victory on Saturday would not only propel them to the next stage of the playoffs but also symbolize a resurgence of the program’s storied legacy. Meanwhile, Ohio State is determined to defend its home turf and advance in the tournament, bolstered by the unyielding support of their fans.
The winner of this pivotal matchup will earn the opportunity to play in the prestigious Rose Bowl against the Oregon Ducks. For both teams, the allure of competing in one of college football’s most iconic events adds an extra layer of motivation.
As game day approaches, Columbus continues to embrace the influx of fans from Tennessee. Local businesses near the stadium have reported an uptick in activity, with restaurants and shops catering to both Buckeye and Volunteer supporters. The mingling of fan bases has created an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement, though the competitive tension is unmistakable.
The Ohio Stadium, affectionately known as “The Horseshoe,” is set to be the epicenter of this electrifying event. With a seating capacity exceeding 100,000, the stadium will be packed with passionate fans, creating an environment that’s sure to be both intimidating and exhilarating. For Ohio State, the home-field advantage could play a critical role, while Tennessee will rely on its momentum and the resilience of its players to overcome the challenges of playing in a hostile environment.
The game has also drawn national attention, with analysts and commentators weighing in on the potential outcome. Many have highlighted the strengths of both teams, noting the Buckeyes’ formidable offense and the Volunteers’ dynamic playmaking abilities. Key players on each side are expected to shine, with their performances likely determining the game’s outcome.
For fans like Obenour, the playoff game represents more than just a contest on the field. It’s a chance to witness history in the making and to celebrate the passion and dedication that define college football. Whether clad in scarlet and gray or sporting vibrant orange, supporters from both teams are united by their love for the game and the anticipation of what promises to be an unforgettable experience.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, Columbus brims with anticipation. The orange invasion has added a unique twist to the city’s usual sea of Buckeye pride, setting the stage for a clash that will be remembered for years to come. Regardless of the outcome, the game is a testament to the enduring appeal of college football and the unifying power of sports.
