Ohio State vs Oregon

It may not have come via the route Ohio State expected, but the Buckeyes are exactly where they wanted to be: competing for a national championship. Despite two regular-season losses that altered their original path, Ohio State’s dream remains alive. After a first-round College Football Playoff (CFP) win against Tennessee last weekend, the Buckeyes now turn their attention to the iconic Rose Bowl, where they will face a familiar foe on New Year’s Day.

The opponent in Pasadena is none other than the Oregon Ducks, a team that narrowly defeated Ohio State 32-31 in mid-October. That meeting marked the first between the two teams as Big Ten conference opponents. Now, with the stakes higher than ever, the Buckeyes have the opportunity to avenge that loss and advance to the CFP semifinals in the Cotton Bowl. Awaiting the winner will be either Texas or Arizona State, with a national championship berth on the line.

Since their first encounter, both Ohio State and Oregon have evolved. This rematch will test each team’s ability to adjust and exploit the other’s weaknesses. For the Buckeyes, it’s not just about revenge but also redemption, particularly after a disappointing season-ending loss to Michigan. This Rose Bowl presents the ultimate stage for Ohio State to reassert itself as a national powerhouse.

Game Details

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025; 5 p.m. ET
  • Venue: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California
  • TV: ESPN (Main broadcast with Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit)
  • Streaming: ESPN App, Watch ESPN, Fubo TV
  • Alternative Broadcasts:
    • SkyCast on ESPNEWS
    • Field Pass with Pat McAfee on ESPN2 (featuring former Buckeye A.J. Hawk)
    • Command Center on ESPNU
  • Radio: Local Ohio State affiliates
  • Line: Ohio State -2.5
  • Weather: 73 degrees, mostly sunny, 0% chance of rain

Key Storylines

Ohio State’s path to the Rose Bowl has been tumultuous but thrilling. After their early-season loss to Oregon and the bitter defeat to Michigan, many doubted the Buckeyes’ championship aspirations. However, their resilience and a strong performance against Tennessee have put them back in contention. This game not only serves as a chance to advance but also to rewrite the narrative of their season.

Ohio State and Oregon Prepare for a Rare Second Showdown in the Same Season

For fans looking to watch, there’s no shortage of options. While the primary broadcast will air on ESPN, alternative viewing experiences include the SkyCast, Field Pass with Pat McAfee, and a Command Center perspective. Whether tuning in via traditional TV, streaming platforms, or ESPN’s app, Buckeye Nation will have ample opportunities to catch every moment.

As the Buckeyes take the field on New Year’s Day, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Ohio State avenge its earlier loss and keep its championship dreams alive? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Pasadena. Go Buckeyes!