Ohio State and Tennessee clash in a high-stakes CFP game, offering drama, redemption, and a shot at the Buckeyes’ championship hopes.
As the eighth seed in the College Football Playoff, Ohio State is hosting the ninth-seeded Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio Stadium. Both teams boast identical 10-2 records, setting the stage for a fierce battle to advance to the quarterfinals. A victory here would give the Buckeyes their first CFP win since the 2020 season and propel them to a rematch against No. 1 seed Oregon in the Rose Bowl—the only other team that defeated Ohio State this season.
For Tennessee, the stakes are equally high. The Volunteers have shown resilience and skill throughout the season, making them formidable opponents. Their only previous encounter with Ohio State was in the 1996 Citrus Bowl, where Peyton Manning led Tennessee to a 20-14 victory over Eddie George and the Buckeyes. Ohio State fans are eager to see their team exact revenge in a game with far greater implications.
Head-to-Head Record
Ohio State and Tennessee have faced off only once before in their storied football histories. That matchup occurred in the 1996 Citrus Bowl, where Tennessee, led by Peyton Manning, claimed a 20-14 victory over Ohio State, spearheaded by Eddie George. This game remains a significant point of reference as the teams meet again in the College Football Playoff with even higher stakes.
Keys to Victory for Ohio State
Success for Ohio State will hinge on a few critical factors. First, the Buckeyes need to establish control early, leveraging their offensive firepower. Quarterback Howard has been a standout, demonstrating precision and composure throughout the season. His performance in the pocket, combined with the explosive playmaking abilities of star wide receiver Smith, will be pivotal. Smith, who has consistently delivered under pressure, must continue to find separation against Tennessee’s secondary.
Running the ball effectively is another key area. Ohio State’s dynamic backfield, led by Henderson and Judkins, must be prepared to grind out tough yards and wear down Tennessee’s defensive line. Ball control and minimizing turnovers will be crucial to keep the Volunteers from gaining any momentum.
Defensively, the Buckeyes must contain Tennessee’s dual-threat quarterback, Iamaleava. Known for his agility and ability to extend plays, Iamaleava can be dangerous if allowed to operate in open space. Ohio State’s defensive unit will need to tackle well and maintain discipline in their assignments, especially when dealing with quarterback runs and designed rollouts.
Game Progression and Key Moments.
First Quarter.
Ohio State started the game on an electrifying note, jumping out to a 21-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Buckeyes played with intensity, executing well-coordinated drives that showcased Howard’s passing precision and Smith’s ability to win 1-on-1 matchups. Tennessee struggled to find rhythm offensively and looked visibly rattled by Ohio State’s aggressive play.
Second Quarter
Tennessee finally found some footing in the second quarter, putting 10 points on the board. Iamaleava showcased his skills by orchestrating a solid drive that culminated in a field goal and a late touchdown. Ohio State, however, failed to score in this quarter, and the momentum slightly shifted as the Volunteers began to battle back.
Third Quarter
The Buckeyes regained control in the third quarter with Howard continuing to shine. He connected with Smith for a stunning 22-yard touchdown pass that extended the lead to 28-10. This play was emblematic of Smith’s impressive route-running and Howard’s accuracy. Ohio State’s defense stepped up, containing Tennessee’s run game and forcing a key punt that kept the Volunteers on their heels.
Ohio State then added another touchdown when Judkins powered into the end zone from one yard out, increasing the lead to 35-10. This score effectively deflated Tennessee’s spirits, with many in the stadium sensing that the game was slipping out of reach for the Volunteers.
See the first half highlights:
Fourth Quarter.
The final quarter saw Ohio State adding another touchdown courtesy of Henderson’s impressive 24-yard run. The Buckeyes took a commanding 42-10 lead, and the celebration among the Ohio State faithful began. With just under two minutes left, Tennessee managed to score a late touchdown on a 2-yard rush by Iamaleava, marking his second of the game. However, it was too little, too late.
In a notable moment reflective of modern college football, Ohio State brought in backup quarterback Devin Brown, who is currently in the transfer portal. Brown’s appearance, albeit brief, was a reminder of the evolving dynamics of college football rosters in the transfer era.
Key Players and Standout Performances.
Howard was sensational, finishing the game with 311 passing yards and two touchdowns on 24-of-28 attempts. His composure under pressure and ability to deliver precise throws were instrumental in Ohio State’s success. Smith had a standout night as well, recording six receptions for 102 yards and two touchdowns. His knack for making big plays when it matters most continues to cement his status as a top receiver.
On the ground, Henderson and Judkins provided a powerful 1-2 punch, combining for multiple touchdowns and significant yardage. Defensively, Ohio State’s ability to limit Tennessee’s options and contain Iamaleava was critical. The defensive line and linebackers maintained pressure and kept the Volunteers from gaining consistent momentum.
See full highlights of the match:
Looking Ahead.
With this dominant win, Ohio State moves forward to the Rose Bowl, where they will face Oregon in a highly anticipated rematch. The Buckeyes will need to maintain the same level of intensity and focus to advance to the national championship game. For Tennessee, this loss marks the end of a solid season but offers lessons and experiences to build upon in future campaigns.
Conclusion
Ohio State’s 42-17 victory over Tennessee was a statement win that showcased the team’s resilience, talent, and preparation. Focus keywords like ‘Ohio State vs Tennessee,’ ‘CFP first-round,’ and ‘Rose Bowl rematch’ underscore the significance of this win. Despite a challenging season, the Buckeyes have a clear path forward and renewed momentum as they continue their quest for a national championship. As they look ahead to the Rose Bowl, fans and players alike can take pride in a performance that delivered when it mattered most.
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