It's the showdown everyone's been waiting for as the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) and No. 1 Oregon Ducks (13-0) clash in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the legendary Rose Bowl. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, and all eyes will be on Pasadena as these two heavyweights battle for a spot in the semifinals.
How to Watch #8 Ohio State vs #1 Oregon in the College Football Playoff:
- Date: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Channel: ESPN
- Stream: Fubo
Ohio State's regular-season finale against Michigan was a disappointment. The Buckeyes' 13-10 loss to their archrival in Columbus dashed their Big Ten Championship hopes and raised plenty of questions. But they answered those doubts decisively with a first-round CFP beatdown of No. 9 Tennessee, sending the Volunteers packing in a dominant performance in Columbus.
Quarterback Will Howard will need to be sharp and, let's face it, manage the clock better this time. In their earlier loss to Oregon, Howard's clock mismanagement cost the Buckeyes a chance to win after a 32-31 defeat. Redemption is on the table, and Ohio State's defense ranked third nationally in points allowed (11.4 per game), will play a crucial role.
The Ducks have been unstoppable this season. After edging Ohio State in their October thriller, they steamrolled through the Big Ten Championship Game, defeating Penn State 45-37. Though the late Nittany Lions score made it look closer than it was, Oregon's offensive firepower and defensive grit have made them the team to beat in the CFP.
Led by Heisman finalist QB Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks have been a nightmare for opposing defenses. Gabriel's ability to spread the ball and keep defenses guessing has been Oregon's secret sauce. Combine that with PK Atticus Sappington's clutch kicking (remember that game-winning field goal against Ohio State?), and the Ducks have all the tools to keep their undefeated season alive.
Score Prediction: Oregon 34, Ohio State 27
This rematch has all the makings of another classic, but Oregon's balanced attack and ability to handle the big moments give them the edge. Expect Dillon Gabriel to shine and the Ducks' defense to make just enough plays to keep Ohio State at bay. The Buckeyes will keep it close, but clock management and big-game execution will tilt the scales in Oregon's favor.
So, grab your popcorn and settle in—this Rose Bowl rematch promises to be one for the ages!
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