Eric Boggs
As the Ohio State Buckeyes travel west to face the Oregon Ducks in a highly anticipated prime-time matchup, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams. For Ohio State, it’s a chance to remain undefeated and make a strong statement in the race for a Big Ten title and a potential playoff spot. For Oregon, this game represents an opportunity to prove they belong among college football’s elite after a season filled with ups and downs. The Buckeyes and Ducks each bring a unique set of strengths to the table, making this contest one of the most compelling games of the season.
Buckeyes Looking to Stay Perfect
Ohio State comes into the game with plenty of momentum, boasting an impressive record that includes a string of dominant performances. Under the guidance of head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have been well-prepared each week, steadily climbing the rankings as they continue to overwhelm opponents. Quarterback Will Howard, in his first year leading Ohio State’s offense, has settled into his role, managing the offense efficiently while limiting mistakes. This game against Oregon, however, is his toughest test to date and a prime opportunity for Howard to solidify himself as a reliable leader capable of winning big games.
One of the keys to Ohio State’s success has been their balanced attack. The offense has thrived behind a powerful running game featuring star backs Travion Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Both players have been pivotal in keeping opposing defenses on their heels, forcing teams to respect the run and opening up opportunities for Howard to exploit through the air. Ohio State’s ability to run the ball effectively will be crucial in this game, as it could help wear down Oregon’s defense and control the pace of play.
Ohio State’s Playmakers on Offense
Howard won’t be alone in the effort to keep the Buckeyes’ offense rolling. Ohio State boasts one of the nation’s top receiving corps, led by Emeka Egbuka, who has continued to prove himself as one of college football’s most dangerous playmakers. Egbuka’s ability to stretch the field with his speed and make plays in traffic will be a major factor against Oregon’s secondary, which has struggled at times to contain elite pass catchers. Complementing Egbuka are talented receivers like Tez Johnson, who has emerged as a reliable target for Howard, especially on deep routes and third-down conversions.
Ohio State’s offensive line will play a pivotal role in the outcome of this game. While the line has shown improvement in recent weeks, particularly in games against Boise State and Michigan State, they haven’t faced a defensive front as aggressive as Oregon’s. The Ducks are known for their ability to generate pressure, led by standout pass rushers Jordan Burch and Jamari Caldwell. If Oregon can disrupt the timing of Ohio State’s passing game and win the battle in the trenches, it could create opportunities to force turnovers or stall drives.
Ohio State’s Defense: The Backbone of the Team
While the Buckeyes’ offense gets much of the spotlight, it’s their defense that has been the true backbone of the team this season. Ohio State enters the game with the number-one ranked defense in the country, a unit that has smothered opponents and consistently shut down opposing offenses. The Buckeyes’ front seven, anchored by a ferocious defensive line, has been dominant at controlling the line of scrimmage and pressuring quarterbacks into mistakes. Against Oregon’s offense, which relies heavily on both the run and pass, this defensive front will need to be at its best.
Oregon’s offense has been productive, but quarterback Dylan Gabriel has shown vulnerabilities, particularly when pressured. The Ducks have struggled with turnovers in critical moments, and Gabriel has been known to throw interceptions in the red zone, including two costly ones against Michigan State earlier this season. Ohio State’s defense will look to exploit those tendencies, using their pass rush to force Gabriel into quick decisions and potentially create game-changing turnovers.
Oregon’s Offensive Weapons
Despite their inconsistencies, the Oregon Ducks are no slouch offensively. Running back Ashman Chanty has been one of the bright spots for the Ducks this season, already amassing over 1,000 rushing yards. Chanty’s power and vision make him a threat to break big plays, and he’ll be a focal point for Oregon’s offense against a stout Ohio State run defense. If the Ducks can get their ground game going early, it could open up opportunities for Gabriel to take shots downfield.
Oregon’s receiving corps, led by Treshaun Holden and Tez Johnson, has the potential to stretch Ohio State’s secondary. However, much of Oregon’s success through the air will depend on their offensive line’s ability to protect Gabriel and give him time to make plays. Oregon’s line has struggled at times this season, particularly in losses and narrow wins where pressure disrupted their offensive flow. With Ohio State’s defensive front bringing the heat, the Ducks’ line will need to step up to give Gabriel a fighting chance.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Ohio State Defensive Line vs. Oregon Offensive Line: This is where the game could be won or lost. Ohio State’s defensive line has been relentless this season, and if they can get into the backfield and rattle Gabriel, it could be a long night for Oregon. Conversely, if Oregon’s line can hold up and give Gabriel time to throw, the Ducks could find success against Ohio State’s secondary.
- Emeka Egbuka vs. Oregon’s Secondary: Egbuka has been nearly unstoppable this season, and Oregon’s defensive backs will have their hands full trying to contain him. Whether it’s in single coverage or with safety help, the Ducks will need to be sharp in their coverage schemes to avoid giving up big plays.
- Oregon’s Run Game vs. Ohio State’s Run Defense: Ashman Chanty has been a workhorse for Oregon, but he’ll be up against one of the best run defenses in the country. Ohio State has been excellent at limiting big runs and forcing teams to become one-dimensional. If the Buckeyes can bottle up Chanty, it will put even more pressure on Gabriel to carry the offense.
Oregon’s Defensive Playmakers
On the defensive side, Oregon has its own group of stars who will be tasked with slowing down Ohio State’s offense. Edge rusher Jordan Burch has been a menace off the edge, and his ability to get after the quarterback could be key in disrupting Will Howard’s rhythm. Additionally, inside linebacker Jeffrey Bassa will be instrumental in Oregon’s efforts to contain Ohio State’s running game. Bassa’s ability to diagnose plays and make tackles in the open field will be crucial in keeping the Buckeyes from breaking off big runs.
Oregon’s defense operates out of a 4-2-5 scheme, which is designed to limit quick passes and force offenses to rely on the run. However, the Buckeyes’ balanced attack could pose a challenge, as Ohio State is capable of mixing in quick throws, screens, and play-action passes to keep the defense guessing. Oregon’s secondary will need to be sharp in their coverages, especially against Ohio State’s speedy receivers.
Final Thoughts and Prediction
This game will likely be decided in the trenches. If Ohio State can establish the run and protect Howard, they should have the upper hand, especially with their explosive playmakers in the passing game. On defense, the Buckeyes will look to pressure Gabriel and force him into mistakes, capitalizing on turnovers to shift momentum.
Oregon, on the other hand, will need a near-perfect game to pull off the upset. The Ducks must protect Gabriel, avoid turnovers, and find success in the running game with Chanty. Defensively, Oregon needs to slow down Ohio State’s high-powered offense and force Howard into uncomfortable situations.
In the end, Ohio State’s balanced attack and elite defense are expected to be too much for Oregon to handle. A 35-17 win for the Buckeyes seems likely, with a possible defensive touchdown swinging the game in Ohio State’s favor. The Buckeyes’ quest for a Big Ten title and playoff berth continues, while Oregon will need to regroup as they look to finish their season strong.
