The College Football Playoff (CFP) has grown to become one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the sports calendar, with the nation’s top four teams battling it out for a shot at the national championship. This year, the first-round matchup between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Ohio State Buckeyes is shaping up to be a thrilling contest between two programs with rich football traditions. As we look ahead to this showdown, let’s break down both teams’ strengths, weaknesses, and key factors that will ultimately decide this game.
Tennessee Volunteers: The Resurgent Power of the SEC
Tennessee has been one of the most exciting teams in college football this season, propelled by an explosive offense under head coach Josh Heupel. The Volunteers finished the regular season with an 11-1 record, earning them a spot in the College Football Playoff. Their only loss came at the hands of the Georgia Bulldogs, but even in that defeat, Tennessee showed they could compete with the nation’s elite.
Offense:
At the heart of Tennessee’s offense is quarterback Joe Milton, who has provided a spark in his senior year after taking over for Hendon Hooker. Milton’s arm strength is legendary, and he has the ability to make every throw on the field. However, his accuracy and decision-making have sometimes been inconsistent. In the regular season, Milton threw for 3,000+ yards and 30 touchdowns, although he also had his fair share of interceptions. His deep-ball accuracy will be critical in this matchup against Ohio State’s secondary, which, while talented, can be prone to giving up big plays.
Tennessee’s offense is designed to be fast and up-tempo, with Heupel’s system pushing the pace and forcing opposing defenses to stay on their heels. The Volunteers have a solid stable of running backs, led by Jabari Small, who has been effective both in short-yardage situations and as a change-of-pace back in the open field. This balanced offensive attack, which can beat you both through the air and on the ground, will be tough for Ohio State’s defense to handle, particularly if they can establish the run early.
Defense:
Tennessee’s defense has been a weak spot at times during the season. They are often susceptible to big plays, especially through the air, and have given up points to teams with high-powered offenses like Alabama and Georgia. However, they have shown an ability to create turnovers, with standout players like linebacker Aaron Beasley and cornerback Kamal Hadden stepping up when it matters most. The Volunteers will need to be opportunistic against Ohio State’s high-octane offense and try to force turnovers that can shift momentum.
Tennessee’s defensive line, led by edge rusher Byron Young, will have to get pressure on Ohio State’s quarterback early and often, particularly given the Buckeyes’ dynamic passing attack. A lack of consistent pressure could allow Ohio State to establish rhythm and control the tempo, which would make it difficult for Tennessee’s defense to stay competitive.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Elite Talent Across the Board
Ohio State enters the CFP with a 12-1 record, finishing second in the Big Ten and earning a berth in the playoff after a close loss to Michigan. The Buckeyes are one of the most talented teams in the country, with elite players on both sides of the ball. Head coach Ryan Day has built a high-powered offense that has the ability to score at will, and Ohio State’s defense is one of the most formidable in college football.
Offense:
Ohio State’s offense is led by quarterback Kyle McCord, who has been a steady presence under center in his first season as the starter. McCord has thrown for over 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns this year, with star wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka giving him two of the best targets in the country. Harrison is a potential Heisman Trophy candidate, with his ability to create separation and make acrobatic catches on critical downs. Egbuka, his running mate, is also a dynamic playmaker capable of breaking the game open.
The running game is led by Travion Henderson, a talented back who can both power through defenses and break away for long runs. Ohio State has one of the most balanced offenses in the nation, and this versatility makes them dangerous in any situation. Tennessee’s defense will need to pick its poison, as trying to stop both the passing game and the run will be a monumental task. Ohio State has shown the ability to exploit both strengths and weaknesses in opposing defenses, which gives them the edge in terms of offensive versatility.
Defense:
Ohio State’s defense has been one of the top units in the country this season, allowing just 16.5 points per game. The defense is headlined by a strong defensive line featuring J.T. Tuimoloau, who has been a force in both pass rushing and run defense. The secondary, anchored by safety Sonny Styles and cornerback Denzel Burke, has been solid throughout the year, though they have had moments of vulnerability against quick, fast-paced offenses like Tennessee’s.
The Buckeyes’ defense is built on speed and strength, with an emphasis on getting after the quarterback and limiting big plays. However, they have occasionally struggled with teams that can maintain a high tempo and exploit gaps in coverage. This makes their matchup with Tennessee particularly intriguing, as the Volunteers’ up-tempo offense could challenge Ohio State’s defense in ways that other teams haven’t.
Key Matchup: Tennessee’s Up-Tempo Offense vs. Ohio State’s Elite Defense
The most intriguing aspect of this matchup will be the battle between Tennessee’s high-speed offense and Ohio State’s stingy defense. Tennessee’s ability to push the pace and make quick throws could keep Ohio State’s defense on its heels, while the Buckeyes’ ability to impose their will with a powerful defensive front could make it difficult for Tennessee to find consistency.
Ohio State will likely look to pressure Joe Milton early and force him into mistakes, knowing that his inconsistency could play into their hands. At the same time, Tennessee’s offense is capable of hitting on big plays, which could put Ohio State’s defense in uncomfortable situations. If the Volunteers can establish the run and keep Ohio State’s defense from teeing off on Milton, they might be able to control the game’s tempo.
Prediction: Ohio State 38, Tennessee 28
In what promises to be a high-stakes, high-scoring affair, Ohio State’s overall balance and depth will likely prove to be the deciding factor. While Tennessee’s offense is explosive, Ohio State has the weapons on both sides of the ball to counter every move. Expect a tightly contested first half, but the Buckeyes will pull away in the second half with their superior talent, depth, and ability to adapt to Tennessee’s fast-paced offense. Ohio State’s defensive front will wear down Tennessee’s offensive line, allowing McCord and the offense to make key plays down the stretch. Ultimately, Ohio State’s balance and ability to dominate in the trenches will earn them a spot in the CFP National Championship Game.
