Eric Boggs
As the college football playoff heats up, all eyes are on Pasadena for what promises to be an electrifying Rose Bowl showdown. The Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) and the Oregon Ducks (13-0) are set to renew their rivalry in a second-round matchup that has the makings of a classic.
This marks the 12th meeting between these storied programs. Ohio State leads the series 9-2, but Oregon enters with confidence, having won the last two matchups—including a thrilling 32-31 victory earlier this season in Eugene. Historically, the Buckeyes dominated this series, winning the first nine contests. Yet, Oregon’s recent success has added intrigue and intensity to this rivalry.
The Rose Bowl itself is familiar territory for both teams. Ohio State is 9-7 all-time in Pasadena and has won its last four appearances. Their most recent trip was a dramatic 48-45 victory over Utah in 2022, showcasing standout performances by Marvin Harrison Jr., Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and CJ Stroud. Oregon, meanwhile, aims to replicate its success from earlier this season and prove it can beat Ohio State on a grand stage.
Statistically, these teams are remarkably similar. Ohio State averages 35.9 points per game, while Oregon posts 36. Offensively, Oregon holds a slight edge in passing yards per game (278 to 259), but the Buckeyes counter with a defense allowing just 11.4 points per game—one of the nation’s best. Oregon’s defense, though solid, gives up nearly 18 points per game and struggles in the red zone, allowing opponents to score 85% of the time inside the 20.
Defensively, the Buckeyes’ strength lies in their ability to pressure quarterbacks and limit big plays. Since their loss to Oregon, Ohio State’s secondary has been airtight, not allowing a passing touchdown. The key to their success has been a relentless defensive line that pressures quarterbacks into quick decisions.
Keys to Victory for Ohio State
To reverse their fortunes against the Ducks, Ohio State must:
- Pressure Oregon QB Dylan Gabriel: The seasoned signal-caller thrives when given time in the pocket. The Buckeyes’ defensive front must disrupt his rhythm early and often.
- Win on the Perimeter: In their last meeting, Oregon’s receivers consistently beat Ohio State’s cornerbacks. The Buckeyes need standout performances from Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun to lock down Oregon’s playmakers.
- Utilize the Running Backs: Ohio State’s running backs, led by TreVeyon Henderson, can exploit Oregon’s defense in both the run game and as pass-catchers. Against Tennessee last week, Ohio State effectively incorporated their backs into the passing game—a strategy they’ll look to replicate.
- Stay Disciplined: Oregon’s offense thrives on misdirection and eye-catching plays. Maintaining focus and gap discipline will be crucial for the Buckeyes.
The Ducks will rely on their athleticism and veteran leadership. Gabriel’s experience and poise under pressure are unmatched, but Oregon’s offensive line must hold up against Ohio State’s ferocious pass rush. Defensively, the Ducks must contain Ohio State’s explosive receivers, Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, while avoiding costly penalties.
The game within the game will be the battle in the trenches. Ohio State’s offensive line, a unit that struggled at times this season, faces a formidable challenge against Oregon’s edge rushers. “Every week, the Ducks have looked confident doing whatever they’ve needed to do to win,” Quack 12 Podcast host Adam Chimeo stated while being a guest on The OHIO Podcast.
Another subplot is officiating. Ohio State fans vividly recall a controversial offensive pass interference call in the first matchup. With the same officiating conference (ACC) overseeing this game, discipline and adjustments will be critical.
Much of Oregon’s optimism stems from its dominant offensive line and a defense that has gelled significantly since the teams’ last encounter. Key players like Jordan Burch and Mateo Uiagalelei have stepped up, creating pressure and making game-changing plays. Uiagalelei, in particular, has drawn praise for his growth, highlighted by his game-winning interception against Wisconsin earlier in the season.
“Defensively, we’ve only gotten better,” said Adam, host of the Quack 12 Podcast. “If both teams bring their A-plus game, I’m taking the Ducks because I think we have some key advantages, particularly in the trenches.”
Ohio State, on the other hand, is looking to avenge a bitter loss to Oregon earlier in the season. The Buckeyes’ defense, which faltered in that game, is expected to be a different beast this time around. Burke, Ohio State’s star cornerback, endured a rough outing in their previous matchup but has since regained his form, anchoring a defense that is playing its best football of the year.
“This defense is angry and hungry,” noted Chris from The OHIO Podcast. “I don’t see the Ducks scoring in the 30s again. Ohio State’s defense will lock them down.”
On offense, the Buckeyes boast one of the nation’s top receiving corps, a unit capable of breaking open a game with explosive plays. While the Ducks’ secondary managed to contain them in their first meeting, Ohio State is banking on a more cohesive game plan to exploit mismatches and generate scoring opportunities.
Both teams are led by coaches with starkly contrasting styles. Oregon’s Dan Lanning has earned a reputation as a “riverboat gambler,” unafraid to take risks in high-pressure moments. From trick plays to aggressive fourth-down decisions, Lanning’s boldness has paid dividends—and occasionally backfired.
Meanwhile, Ohio State’s Ryan Day faces questions about his approach in critical games. Known for being conservative in big moments, Day showed a more aggressive side in a recent rout of Tennessee. The Buckeyes will need that same intensity to prevail against the Ducks.
With both teams evenly matched, the game is expected to come down to a handful of key moments. Adam predicts a 35-31 victory for Oregon, citing the Ducks’ balanced attack and Dylan Gabriel’s composure in big games. Chris and Eric, however, see the Buckeyes emerging victorious. Chris envisions a 31-21 win, emphasizing Ohio State’s defensive improvements, while Eric predicts a closer 28-24 result.
Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: the Rose Bowl will be a clash for the ages, with the winner likely to claim the national championship. As Adam aptly put it, “This might be the actual Natty.”
Kickoff is set for Pasadena, where history, tradition, and a shot at glory await.
