Ohio State Buckeyes Dominate Tennessee, Set Sights on Oregon in Rose Bowl Showdown
The Ohio State Buckeyes entered the 2024 College Football Playoff with a sense of unfinished business. After another disappointing loss to their arch-rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, to close out the regular season, Ohio State found itself in a precarious position. Despite the setbacks, their body of work earlier in the season had been more than enough to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff, though the loss to Michigan meant they wouldn’t get the luxury of a first-round bye. Instead, they would face a tough Tennessee Volunteers squad in the Playoff opener, and many had questioned whether the Buckeyes could rebound and play at the level expected of them.
But after a dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee, the Buckeyes silenced their critics and showed the College Football world exactly why they are a championship contender. The win not only allowed Ohio State to advance to the Rose Bowl for a New Year’s Day showdown with the Oregon Ducks, but it also showcased a team that is finding its rhythm at just the right time. With growing confidence, head coach Ryan Day is optimistic that his team can continue to build momentum and take the next step toward a national title.
The Tennessee Victory: A Complete Team Effort
Ohio State’s performance against Tennessee was nothing short of spectacular. The Buckeyes came into the game determined to prove that they were more than the team that faltered against Michigan. From the opening kick, they played with energy, confidence, and precision on both sides of the ball. By the time the fourth quarter rolled around, Ohio State had built a commanding 35-10 lead, effectively putting the game out of reach for Tennessee.
Offensively, Ohio State looked unstoppable. Quarterback C.J. Stroud was in vintage form, connecting with his receivers and orchestrating a well-balanced attack. Stroud threw for over 300 yards, spreading the ball around to a variety of playmakers, including wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka, as well as tight end Cade Stover. The offensive line, led by Donovan Jackson, dominated the line of scrimmage, providing Stroud with ample time to survey the field while also creating massive running lanes for TreVeyon Henderson. Henderson had one of his best games of the season, rushing for over 120 yards and adding two touchdowns.
However, it was Ohio State’s defense that truly stood out in the game. The Buckeyes had been criticized earlier in the season for some lackluster performances on the defensive side of the ball, but against Tennessee, they were absolutely suffocating. Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton, who had been explosive all season, was stifled throughout the game. He finished with just 104 yards passing on 31 attempts, a testament to Ohio State’s stifling pass rush and tight coverage in the secondary.
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles had his unit fully prepared, and it showed. The defensive line, led by J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, harassed Milton all game long, registering multiple sacks and pressures. The secondary, with standout cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock, did an excellent job of limiting Tennessee’s big-play ability. Even though Tennessee’s offense was known for its deep threats and fast tempo, Ohio State never allowed them to find a rhythm, forcing them into three-and-outs and taking away their most dangerous weapons.
Ryan Day’s Leadership and Expectations
For Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day, the victory over Tennessee was a significant step forward, but it was only the beginning. Day has always been known for his offensive acumen, but his ability to keep the team’s morale high and lead them through adversity this season has been equally important. After the Michigan loss, many wondered if Ohio State could bounce back and make a deep playoff run, but Day’s leadership and the resilience of his players have kept the team focused.
“We’re excited, but we’re not satisfied,” Day said after the win over Tennessee. “We’ve got a lot of work to do, and we know that we’ll be facing an incredible challenge with Oregon. But this is the time of year where teams have to step up and take it to the next level, and that’s what we plan to do.”
Day’s words were echoed throughout the team, especially by players like C.J. Stroud and TreVeyon Henderson, who have consistently performed at a high level all season. The confidence in the locker room is palpable, and the focus has shifted to making a deep run in the Playoff. Ohio State has the talent to win it all, and after their statement performance against Tennessee, the team has begun to believe that this year could be their year.
A Look Ahead: The Rose Bowl Showdown with Oregon
With the Tennessee win behind them, the Buckeyes now set their sights on the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl on January 1. Oregon, led by head coach Dan Lanning, is a formidable opponent. The Ducks have had a stellar season, and they are one of the most complete teams in the country. Like Tennessee, Oregon features a high-powered offense that can strike quickly, making them a dangerous matchup for Ohio State.
Oregon’s quarterback, Bo Nix, has been one of the most efficient signal-callers in the country, and he has been able to pick apart defenses with both his arm and his legs. The Ducks also feature a talented group of receivers, including Troy Franklin, who has been a big-play threat throughout the season. On defense, Oregon has been solid, with defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus and linebacker Jamal Hill anchoring a tough unit.
To beat Oregon, Ohio State will need to continue executing on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they will have to control the tempo and limit turnovers. Oregon’s defense has been known to make big plays, and if Ohio State can avoid mistakes, they should have no trouble moving the ball down the field. The key will be for C.J. Stroud to stay calm under pressure and continue distributing the ball effectively to his playmakers. TreVeyon Henderson will also need to have another big game, as his ability to open up the passing game with his running will be crucial.
Defensively, Ohio State will need to contain Bo Nix and keep him from extending plays with his legs. The Buckeyes’ pass rush, which has been improving all season, will need to maintain consistent pressure on Nix and force him into uncomfortable situations. The secondary will also need to be sharp, ensuring that Nix’s talented receivers don’t get behind them for big plays.
The Road Ahead: Championship Aspirations
With the win over Tennessee, Ohio State is now one step closer to achieving their ultimate goal: the national championship. The Buckeyes have the talent, the leadership, and the momentum to make a deep playoff run, and their performance against Tennessee shows that they are hitting their stride at the perfect time.
Ryan Day’s expectations for his team are clear: they need to stay confident, stay focused, and keep playing their best football. The Buckeyes have the tools to win it all, but it will require them to stay locked in, execute at a high level, and rise to the occasion when the pressure is at its peak.
As they prepare for the Rose Bowl and the challenges that lie ahead, Ohio State has become a team that others in the playoff will fear. With a blend of explosive offense, a tough, disciplined defense, and growing confidence, the Buckeyes are ready to prove that they belong at the top of college football once again. If they can continue to play with the same intensity and focus they showed against Tennessee, Ohio State could very well be hoisting the national championship trophy in the near future.
