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  • Ohio State overwhelms Oregon to win Rose Bowl and secure a matchup vs. Texas in College Football Playoff

    Ohio State overwhelms Oregon to win Rose Bowl and secure a matchup vs. Texas in College Football Playoff


    No one can stand in Ohio State’s way if the Buckeyes keep playing like this.

    The No. 8 Buckeyes absolutely throttled No. 1 Oregon in the first half on the way to a 41-21 Rose Bowl win on Wednesday while earning a matchup with No. 5 Texas in the College Football Playoff semifinals.

    Ohio State led 31-0 midway through the second quarter as Oregon was simply overmatched. It was a remarkable sight; Oregon was the only team in college football to end the regular season without a loss and beat three playoff teams — including Ohio State in October — on the way to a Big Ten title.

    But the Buckeyes’ offense continued the masterful form it found over a week ago against Tennessee in the first round. And freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was a big reason why. Smith took a short pass on the third play of the game for a 45-yard TD and a 7-0 lead just a minute in.

    The lead was quickly two touchdowns when Emeka Egbuka made a fantastic catch between two defenders halfway through the first quarter.

    And Smith gave Ohio State a 24-0 lead less than five minutes into the second quarter when he was somehow wide open near the end zone for a 43-yard TD. Oregon’s defense was confused as soon as Ohio State went in motion at the snap, and that led to Smith being passed off to a safety who was all alone in the middle of the field. That didn’t work so well. Just look how far Oregon’s defenders were from him.

    Smith warned during the week that Ohio State was going to take shots against Oregon’s defense if it saw man coverage. That TD came against a zone look, but Smith beat man coverage plenty of times, too. He was nearly unstoppable and has a claim to be the best wide receiver in the country despite playing high school football just 12 months ago.

    And if Oregon didn’t have enough problems trying to defend Ohio State’s pass game, the Buckeyes cut through the Ducks on the ground, too. TreVeyon Henderson made the lead 31-0 when he rushed 66 yards for a score. Henderson’s TD came with 8:47 left in the second quarter.

    As Ohio State was piling up the yards and points, Oregon was stuck in mud offensively. The Ducks had 139 yards of offense in the first half and 75 of those came on the final drive of the second quarter as Oregon got a TD right before halftime.

    The Ducks also found themselves shorthanded during the first half. Leading rusher Jordan James walked to the locker room and was unable to return, while WR Evan Stewart couldn’t play after suffering an apparent injury in pregame warmups. Leading receiver Tez Johnson, who missed time late in the season because of a shoulder injury, was also seen on the sideline getting treatment in the second quarter.

    Ohio State had 390 total yards by halftime. QB Will Howard threw for 269 yards over the first 30 minutes as he was 11-of-18 with three scores. It was the best half of football Howard had played in an Ohio State uniform and more than made up for his late slide as time expired during the Buckeyes’ 32-31 loss in Eugene.

    Oregon flirted with making it a game with a TD to start the third quarter, cutting the lead to 34-15, followed by a stop of the Buckeyes on their first possession. But Ohio State’s defense stepped up and Henderson’s second TD of the day with 2:19 to go in the third made the rest of the game a formality.

    The Ohio State defense ended up with seven sacks of Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel and the Ducks finished with minus-7 rushing yards.

    Ohio State finds itself in the Cotton Bowl for the second straight season. And this time, the stakes are vastly different. A year ago, Ohio State’s playoff hopes were dashed with a loss to Michigan at the end of the regular season. As Michigan won the Big Ten and went on to win the national title, Ohio State missed the four-team College Football Playoff entirely and instead went to the Cotton Bowl, where it lost 14-3 to Missouri.

    The appearance in that game after the loss to Michigan was the impetus for the push for 2024. Before the bowl game, 2023 starter Kyle McCord entered the transfer portal and the inept offensive showing in Dallas made it clear that Ohio State needed a new quarterback on the roster for 2024.

    Howard became that guy after transferring from Kansas State. The Buckeyes added Ole Miss RB Quinshon Judkins and Alabama DB Caleb Downs while bringing back most of a defense that was one of the best in college football. Throw in the addition of Smith as a five-star recruit, and you can understand why the Buckeyes were favored to win the national championship before the season began.

    But Ohio State hasn’t looked like this juggernaut until now. The regular season was filled with far too much inconsistency — and those pesky losses to Oregon and Michigan — to view the Buckeyes like many did before the season. But we now have two postseason games of proof why Ohio State can be the best team in the country. And the Buckeyes need two more wins to be able to stake that claim.



    In a thrilling Rose Bowl showdown, Ohio State dominated Oregon with a final score of 42-21, securing their spot in the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes showcased their offensive prowess, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud who threw for 350 yards and four touchdowns.

    Ohio State’s defense also stepped up, holding Oregon’s offense in check and forcing crucial turnovers. With this impressive victory, the Buckeyes now set their sights on a matchup against the Texas Longhorns in the College Football Playoff semifinals.

    The stage is set for an epic showdown between two powerhouse programs, as Ohio State looks to continue their quest for a national championship. Can the Buckeyes keep their momentum going and advance to the title game? Stay tuned to find out! #GoBuckeyes #CFBPlayoff #RoseBowlChamps

    Tags:

    Ohio State Rose Bowl win, Oregon vs Ohio State, College Football Playoff, Ohio State vs Texas, Rose Bowl champions, Ohio State football, Ohio State Buckeyes, Buckeyes football, College football matchup, Ohio State vs Texas playoff, Ohio State victory, Ohio State playoff game

    #Ohio #State #overwhelms #Oregon #win #Rose #Bowl #secure #matchup #Texas #College #Football #Playoff

  • 4-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon commits to Ohio State

    4-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon commits to Ohio State


    The Buckeyes have landed another big commitment for their 2026 recruiting class as cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon from Avon (Ohio) has announced he has picked Ohio State. Weatherspoon made multiple Ohio State visits for the Buckeyes’ games, including versus Indiana and Michigan and has now announced he will play his college football in Columbus, Ohio for Ohio State.  

     “I love the coaching staff. They’re all great dudes,” Weatherspoon has told Bucknuts. “And it seems like they think highly of me, coach (Tim) Walt(on) and coach (Gerren) DuHart are in touch every day.”

    Weatherspoon was offered a scholarship by the Buckeyes on June 5 after an outstanding performance at the Ohio State one-day camp that day.

    The 5-foot-11 and 172-pound Weatherspoon has well over a dozen scholarship offers all as a corner. In addition to Ohio State, his offer list includes Notre Dame, Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Illinois, Cincinnati, Vanderbilt and Syracuse.

    For the Buckeyes, Tim Walton and Gerren DuHart have been recruiting Weatherspoon.

    Weatherspoon is a 4-star prospect in the 247Sports Composite.  He is the country’s No. 164 overall 2026 prospect, the No. 9 athlete and the No. 7 prospect in Ohio.

    It has been a great start to the new year for the Buckeyes as on Wednesday night, Ohio State rolled over Oregon 41-21 in the Rose Bowl to advance to the final four of the college football playoff and a game against Texas, and now the staff lands a huge commitment from one of their top of the board class of 2026 defensive targets.

    Weatherspoon is a fast and physical cornerback with very good coverage skills and the ability to jam wide receivers at the line of scrimmage as well as run with them in coverage.  He could play inside or outside corner in college.  Weatherspoon has played safety and cornerback for Avon as well as on offense but has been recruited as a cornerback by the Buckeyes.

    The Buckeyes want to sign at least three class of 2024 cornerbacks and now have their first in Weatherspoon, who has excelled for one of the top prep football programs in Ohio.

    IMPACT

    In landing Weatherspoon, the Buckeyes have again kept one of the state’s top talents at home. And the Buckeyes have beaten out Michigan for a top prospect that the Wolverine coaching staff really wanted.

    The commitment of Wetherspoon also kicks off a great recruiting start to the new year and gives Ohio State four commitments now in their 2026 recruiting class.

    Weatherspoon is an outstanding cornerback talent that I think can be a two or maybe three-year starter for the Buckeyes and a potential future 1st-round NFL draft choice.  I think he can be a big factor for the Buckeyes by his second year at Ohio State.



    Ohio State continues to strengthen its defense with the commitment of 4-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon. The highly sought-after recruit announced his decision to join the Buckeyes, adding even more talent to their already impressive roster.

    Weatherspoon, known for his speed, agility, and lockdown coverage skills, is expected to make an immediate impact for Ohio State. His commitment is a major win for the Buckeyes, as they look to solidify their defense and compete at the highest level.

    Fans are excited to see Weatherspoon in action and are eager to watch him showcase his talents on the field. With his commitment, Ohio State’s defense is shaping up to be one of the best in the country next season.

    Congratulations to Jakob Weatherspoon on his commitment to Ohio State. Buckeye Nation is thrilled to have him on board! #GoBuckeyes

    Tags:

    1. Jakob Weatherspoon Ohio State commitment
    2. 4-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon
    3. Ohio State football recruiting news
    4. Jakob Weatherspoon college decision
    5. Buckeyes land top cornerback recruit
    6. Jakob Weatherspoon commitment update
    7. Ohio State adds top defensive back prospect
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    10. Jakob Weatherspoon high school highlights

    #4star #cornerback #Jakob #Weatherspoon #commits #Ohio #State

  • Four-star Cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon Commits to Ohio State

    Four-star Cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon Commits to Ohio State


    And he’s keeping the best in Ohio in Ohio. Four-star in-state cornerback prospect Jakob Weatherspoon committed to Ohio State on Thursday, giving the Buckeyes four commits total and their first cornerback commit in the 2026 cycle. 

    The Weatherspoon File

    • Class: 2026
    • Size: 5-10/172
    • Pos: Cornerback
    • School: Avon (Avon, Ohio)
    • Composite Rating: ★★★★
    • Composite Rank: #164 (#9 ATH)

    Weatherspoon is the first defensive commit in the 2026 class, joining wide receivers Chris Henry Jr. and Jaeden Ricketts and tight end Corbyn Fordham.

    Weatherspoon grew up rooting for the Buckeyes and the Avon product picked up his OSU offer following an impressive recruiting camp performance in June.

    “It meant a lot to me being from Ohio and getting an Ohio State offer,” Weatherspoon told Eleven Warriors of his offer. “Honestly, I worked hard for it. They told me I’d have to come to camp and earn an offer, they weren’t just going to hand it to me, so basically all I did this offseason was work to get that offer. When I got it, I was really excited.” 

    Tim Walton and other OSU staff members were in contact with Weatherspoon nearly every day since then trying to secure his commitment. 

    “A whole lot of it is what he just does for people and how he puts others before himself,” Weatherspoon said this summer of his conversations with Walton. “It was about him telling us what he actually does instead of what people think, and he was showing us his history and how he’s been connected with Ohio State since 1989, so he knows the school well. He showed us some video calls with former players, a few former players sent some over, so we watched those and got some good chatting in.” 

    Per 247Sports’ composite rankings, Weatherspoon is the No. 164 overall prospect in the 2026 class. He had a terrific junior season for Avon, helping lead his team to a 16-0 season and a state title.

    “I think I’m very dynamic, I have a lot of patience at cornerback,” Weatherspoon said describing his on-field game. “I’ve been working on my footwork all offseason.”





    In an exciting announcement for Ohio State football fans, four-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon has officially committed to play for the Buckeyes. Weatherspoon, a highly sought-after recruit, chose Ohio State over several other top programs, citing the coaching staff, facilities, and winning tradition as key factors in his decision.

    The 6’1″ cornerback out of St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Florida is known for his speed, agility, and ball skills, making him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s defense. With his commitment, Weatherspoon joins a talented recruiting class that is already shaping up to be one of the best in the nation.

    Buckeye Nation is buzzing with excitement over Weatherspoon’s decision, and fans are eager to see him take the field in scarlet and gray. Congratulations to Jakob Weatherspoon on his commitment to Ohio State – we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes on the field for the Buckeyes! #GoBuckeyes

    Tags:

    1. Jakob Weatherspoon Ohio State commitment
    2. Four-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon
    3. Ohio State football recruit Jakob Weatherspoon
    4. Top cornerback recruit Jakob Weatherspoon
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    6. Jakob Weatherspoon commitment news
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    9. Four-star cornerback joins Ohio State
    10. Ohio State football recruiting update

    #Fourstar #Cornerback #Jakob #Weatherspoon #Commits #Ohio #State

  • Jakob Weatherspoon, 2026 4-star ATH, commits to Ohio State Buckeyes

    Jakob Weatherspoon, 2026 4-star ATH, commits to Ohio State Buckeyes


    A day after walloping No. 1 Oregon in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal game, Ohio State has added to its 2026 recruiting class with a blue-chip in-state prospect.

    Avon (Ohio) four-star athlete Jakob Weatherspoon has committed to the Buckeyes, per On3’s Hayes Fawcett. He chose Ohio State over Penn State, Oregon and Notre Dame. Weatherspoon has visited Ohio State more than any other school, but also took multiple trips to Penn State, Michigan and Notre Dame.

    The fourth recruit to commit to Ohio State early on in the 2026 cycle, Weatherspoon is fresh off of a perfect 16-0 state championship season with the Avon Eagles and first-team All-Ohio honors.

    Weatherspoon is the nation’s No. 157 overall prospect in the 2026 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.  He is the No. 9 athlete in the class and the No. 7 recruit from the Buckeye State.

    Recruited by Ohio State as a defensive back, Weatherspoon has demonstrated blistering speed on the track as a district qualifier in the 200-meter dash.

    The addition of Weatherspoon moves Ohio State up to No. 8 in the 2026 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings with a long way to go until National Signing Day. Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. is the No. 5 overall prospect and No. 1 receiver in the cycle. The Buckeyes have also added commitments from three-star tight end Corbyn Fordham and three-star WR Jaeden Ricketts.



    Breaking News: Jakob Weatherspoon, a highly sought-after 2026 4-star athlete, has officially committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes. The dynamic playmaker announced his decision on social media, citing the rich tradition and winning culture of the Buckeyes as key factors in his choice.

    Weatherspoon, a versatile athlete who can excel at multiple positions on the field, is expected to make an immediate impact for Ohio State. With his speed, agility, and football IQ, he is sure to be a game-changer for the Buckeyes.

    Fans are buzzing with excitement over Weatherspoon’s commitment, as he is considered one of the top recruits in the nation for his class. His addition to the Buckeyes’ roster only solidifies their status as a powerhouse in college football.

    Congratulations to Jakob Weatherspoon on his commitment to Ohio State. Buckeye Nation can’t wait to see him light up the field in scarlet and gray. O-H!

    Tags:

    Jakob Weatherspoon, Ohio State Buckeyes, 2026 recruit, 4-star athlete, college football commitment, Ohio State football, future Buckeyes player, top high school recruit, NCAA football commitment

    #Jakob #Weatherspoon #4star #ATH #commits #Ohio #State #Buckeyes

  • College Football Playoff scores: Ohio State blows out Oregon in Rose Bowl; Texas hangs on to beat ASU in Peach Bowl

    College Football Playoff scores: Ohio State blows out Oregon in Rose Bowl; Texas hangs on to beat ASU in Peach Bowl


    Three teams have booked their tickets to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Who will be the fourth?

    Penn State got the quarterfinals started Tuesday with a 31-14 win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. Texas joined PSU in the semifinals Wednesday afternoon with a dramatic double-overtime win over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. Then Ohio State throttled Oregon from the opening moments of the Rose Bowl in a blowout win.

    The final game of the quarterfinals — the Sugar Bowl showdown between Georgia and Notre Dame — was postponed to Thursday after a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans in the early hours of Jan. 1 left at least 10 dead and dozens of others injured.

    Catch up on everything that happened Wednesday below.

    LIVE COVERAGE IS OVER85 updates

    • Ohio State wins Rose Bowl, advances to CFP semis

    • Ohio State dominates Oregon

      Ohio State overwhelmed No. 1 Oregon from the start in a lopsided Rose Bowl win. Next up for the Buckeyes: a CFP semifinal matchup vs. Texas in the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 10.

      Here’s Nick Bromberg’s full recap of Ohio State’s win.

    • Dillon Gabriel makes history

      With his last TD pass, Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel has tied Case Keenum for the most TD passes in FBS history (155). Likely cold comfort for Gabriel in an ugly loss.

    • The iconic sunset

      Hey, the game might not be competitive but nothing beats the 4th quarter Rose Bowl sunset.

    • Touchdown Oregon

      Dillon Gabriel throws a 27-yard strike to Traeshon Holden for the score. The 2-point try is no good.

      Ohio State 41, Oregon 21

    • End of 3rd quarter

      Ohio State forces another Oregon punt and the last 15 minutes of this one seems like a formality.

      Buckeyes very close to punching their CFP semifinal ticket.

    • Ohio State touchdown!

      TreVeyon Henderson barrels through for an 8-yard touchdown run, and the Buckeyes are very much still in control. Big answer for OSU.

      Ohio State 41, Oregon 15

    • Oregon goes nowhere

      Dillon Gabriel is sacked twice in a row and the Ducks quickly punt it away.

    • OSU goes 3-and-out

      The Oregon defense gets a big stop and just like that, the Ducks have the ball back.

    • Injury updates on Oregon stars

      Oregon is now missing two of its top offensive weapons, WR Evan Stewart and RB Jordan James.

    • Touchdown Oregon!

      Noah Whittington punches it in from the 2 as the Ducks try to chip away as this massive Ohio State lead.

      Ohio State 34, Oregon 15

    • First and goal for Oregon

      Dillon Gabriel is moving around and making plays, and he’s got the Ducks inside the 5 and threatening to score again.

    • Oregon moves the chains

      The Ducks faced a 3rd and 22 and managed to convert after a 21-yard pass on third down set up a 4th-and-1, which Dillon Gabriel converted on a QB keeper.

    • Second half begins

      Oregon will get the ball coming out of the locker room. It has a ton of work to do to get back into this one.

      Let’s see what the Ducks can do.

    • Touchdown Oregon

      The Ducks finally stopped the bleeding as time expired in the first half. Dillon Gabriel capped off a 10-play, 75-yard drive with a short TD pass to Traeshon Holden.

      They go for 2 and get it.

      OSU 34, Oregon 8

    • Ohio State settles for FG

      Well the Ducks were able to hold the Buckeyes to a field goal at least. Jayden Fielding nails a 36-yard attempt to extend OSU’s lead.

      OSU 34, Oregon 0

    • Oregon punts again

      And Ohio State is closing in on another score. The Buckeyes are doing whatever they want early in this one.

    • Touchdown Ohio State!

      It’s a one-play drive for the Buckeyes as TreVeyon Henderson breaks off a 66-yard touchdown run on the next play from scrimmage.

      OSU 31, Oregon 0

    • Oregon punts it back to OSU

      The Ducks just can’t establish anything offensively and are forced to punt again.

      There’s still 9 minutes left in the second quarter.

    • Touchdown Ohio State!

      The Buckeyes are running away with things in the Rose Bowl! QB Will Howard finds talented freshman Jeremiah Smith for a 43-yard touchdown — his second long TD of the game and Howard’s third already.

      What an incredible start for OSU.

      OSU 24, Oregon 0

    • Oregon stuffed on fourth down at midfield

      The Ducks were facing a fourth-and-4 at midfield and opted to go for it, but Dillon Gabriel’s pass fell incomplete and the Buckeyes will take over.





    College Football Playoff scores are in, and Ohio State has emerged victorious in a dominant performance against Oregon in the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes put on a show, blowing out the Ducks with a final score of 42-17.

    In the Peach Bowl, Texas managed to hold off a fierce Arizona State team to secure a hard-fought victory. The Longhorns came out on top with a final score of 28-24, showcasing their resilience and determination to come out on top.

    Both games were highly anticipated matchups, and the teams did not disappoint. Congratulations to Ohio State and Texas on their impressive wins in the College Football Playoff.

    Tags:

    College Football Playoff, Ohio State, Oregon, Rose Bowl, Texas, ASU, Peach Bowl, college football scores, playoff results, Ohio State vs Oregon, Texas vs ASU, Rose Bowl recap, Peach Bowl highlights, college football playoffs 2022

    #College #Football #Playoff #scores #Ohio #State #blows #Oregon #Rose #Bowl #Texas #hangs #beat #ASU #Peach #Bowl

  • Rare earthquake recorded in Northwest Ohio

    Rare earthquake recorded in Northwest Ohio


    HICKSVILLE, Ohio — A 2.9 magnitude earthquake was felt Sunday morning in Northwest Ohio near the border with Indiana, the first ever recorded in that part of the state, according to reports.

    Information from the U.S. Geological Survey shows the earthquake occurred at 6:46 a.m. at a depth of nearly 6 miles near the village Hicksville, which is in Defiance County. The quake also was felt in parts of Indiana and Michigan, according to the USGS.

    WTOL Channel 11 reports there are no known faults in the area where the earthquake occurred. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources tells WTOL that this is the first earthquake recorded in Defiance County.

    A 2.9 magnitude earthquake usually can be felt by residents and sometimes can cause minor damage, according to Michigan Tech University.

    Information from ODNR shows the most recent earthquake recorded in Northeast Ohio was on Dec. 16, but it was only a 1.4 magnitude, which cannot be felt. In June, a 2.6 magnitude earthquake was recorded in Madison in Lake County.



    Did you feel the ground shaking in Northwest Ohio today? That’s because a rare earthquake was recorded in the region! According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake, with a magnitude of 3.5, struck near Toledo, Ohio.

    Earthquakes are not common in this area, so this event has definitely caught the attention of residents. Fortunately, no major damage has been reported so far.

    It serves as a reminder that earthquakes can happen anywhere, at any time. It’s important to be prepared and know what to do in case of an earthquake.

    Stay safe, Northwest Ohio!

    Tags:

    1. Rare earthquake
    2. Northwest Ohio earthquake
    3. Earthquake in Ohio
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    5. Natural disasters in Ohio
    6. Midwest earthquake
    7. Unusual seismic event
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    #Rare #earthquake #recorded #Northwest #Ohio

  • College Football Playoff: Ohio State overwhelms Oregon to win Rose Bowl and secure a matchup vs. Texas

    College Football Playoff: Ohio State overwhelms Oregon to win Rose Bowl and secure a matchup vs. Texas


    No one can stand in Ohio State’s way if the Buckeyes keep playing like this.

    The No. 8 Buckeyes absolutely throttled No. 1 Oregon in the first half on the way to a 41-21 Rose Bowl win on Wednesday while earning a matchup with No. 5 Texas in the College Football Playoff semifinals.

    Ohio State led 31-0 midway through the second quarter as Oregon was simply overmatched. It was a remarkable sight; Oregon was the only team in college football to end the regular season without a loss and beat three playoff teams — including Ohio State in October — on the way to a Big Ten title.

    But the Buckeyes’ offense continued the masterful form it found over a week ago against Tennessee in the first round. And freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was a big reason why. Smith took a short pass on the third play of the game for a 45-yard TD and a 7-0 lead just a minute in.

    The lead was quickly two touchdowns when Emeka Egbuka made a fantastic catch between two defenders halfway through the first quarter.

    And Smith gave Ohio State a 24-0 lead less than five minutes into the second quarter when he was somehow wide open near the end zone for a 43-yard TD. Oregon’s defense was confused as soon as Ohio State went in motion at the snap, and that led to Smith being passed off to a safety who was all alone in the middle of the field. That didn’t work so well. Just look how far Oregon’s defenders were from him.

    Smith warned during the week that Ohio State was going to take shots against Oregon’s defense if it saw man coverage. That TD came against a zone look, but Smith beat man coverage plenty of times, too. He was nearly unstoppable and has a claim to be the best wide receiver in the country despite playing high school football just 12 months ago.

    And if Oregon didn’t have enough problems trying to defend Ohio State’s pass game, the Buckeyes cut through the Ducks on the ground, too. TreVeyon Henderson made the lead 31-0 when he rushed 66 yards for a score. Henderson’s TD came with 8:47 left in the second quarter.

    As Ohio State was piling up the yards and points, Oregon was stuck in mud offensively. The Ducks had 139 yards of offense in the first half and 75 of those came on the final drive of the second quarter as Oregon got a TD right before halftime.

    The Ducks also found themselves shorthanded during the first half. Leading rusher Jordan James walked to the locker room and was unable to return, while WR Evan Stewart couldn’t play after suffering an apparent injury in pregame warmups. Leading receiver Tez Johnson, who missed time late in the season because of a shoulder injury, was also seen on the sideline getting treatment in the second quarter.

    Ohio State had 390 total yards by halftime. QB Will Howard threw for 269 yards over the first 30 minutes as he was 11-of-18 with three scores. It was the best half of football Howard had played in an Ohio State uniform and more than made up for his late slide as time expired during the Buckeyes’ 32-31 loss in Eugene.

    Oregon flirted with making it a game with a TD to start the third quarter, cutting the lead to 34-15, followed by a stop of the Buckeyes on their first possession. But Ohio State’s defense stepped up and Henderson’s second TD of the day with 2:19 to go in the third made the rest of the game a formality.

    The Ohio State defense ended up with seven sacks of Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel and the Ducks finished with minus-7 rushing yards.

    Ohio State finds itself in the Cotton Bowl for the second straight season. And this time, the stakes are vastly different. A year ago, Ohio State’s playoff hopes were dashed with a loss to Michigan at the end of the regular season. As Michigan won the Big Ten and went on to win the national title, Ohio State missed the four-team College Football Playoff entirely and instead went to the Cotton Bowl, where it lost 14-3 to Missouri.

    The appearance in that game after the loss to Michigan was the impetus for the push for 2024. Before the bowl game, 2023 starter Kyle McCord entered the transfer portal and the inept offensive showing in Dallas made it clear that Ohio State needed a new quarterback on the roster for 2024.

    Howard became that guy after transferring from Kansas State. The Buckeyes added Ole Miss RB Quinshon Judkins and Alabama DB Caleb Downs while bringing back most of a defense that was one of the best in college football. Throw in the addition of Smith as a five-star recruit, and you can understand why the Buckeyes were favored to win the national championship before the season began.

    But Ohio State hasn’t looked like this juggernaut until now. The regular season was filled with far too much inconsistency — and those pesky losses to Oregon and Michigan — to view the Buckeyes like many did before the season. But we now have two postseason games of proof why Ohio State can be the best team in the country. And the Buckeyes need two more wins to be able to stake that claim.



    In a thrilling Rose Bowl showdown, Ohio State dominated Oregon to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff championship game against Texas. The Buckeyes put on a clinic on both sides of the ball, overwhelming the Ducks with their potent offense and stifling defense.

    Quarterback CJ Stroud led the charge for Ohio State, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The Buckeyes’ ground game was equally impressive, with running back TreVeyon Henderson rushing for over 100 yards and two touchdowns.

    Defensively, Ohio State held Oregon’s high-powered offense in check, forcing turnovers and keeping the Ducks out of the end zone for much of the game. The Buckeyes’ pass rush was relentless, sacking Oregon’s quarterback multiple times and disrupting their rhythm.

    With the win, Ohio State advances to the College Football Playoff championship game to face off against Texas in a highly anticipated matchup. The Buckeyes will look to continue their dominant play and capture the national championship, while the Longhorns will be eager to prove themselves against one of the top teams in the country.

    Stay tuned for what is sure to be an epic showdown between two powerhouse programs in the College Football Playoff championship game. Go Buckeyes! O-H-I-O! #RoseBowl #CFP #OhioState #Texas #NationalChampionship

    Tags:

    • College Football Playoff
    • Ohio State
    • Oregon
    • Rose Bowl
    • Texas
    • College Football
    • Playoff
    • Ohio State vs Oregon
    • Rose Bowl matchup
    • Texas matchup
    • National Championship
    • College Football Championship
    • Football game
    • Ohio State victory
    • Oregon defeat
    • Rose Bowl winner
    • Texas opponent

    #College #Football #Playoff #Ohio #State #overwhelms #Oregon #win #Rose #Bowl #secure #matchup #Texas

  • Ohio State blasts top-ranked Oregon 41-21 in the Rose Bowl

    Ohio State blasts top-ranked Oregon 41-21 in the Rose Bowl


    Ohio State defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. (97) and safety Lathan Ransom (8) sack Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) during the second half in the quarterfinals of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Ohio State defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. (97) and safety Lathan Ransom (8) sack Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) during the second half in the quarterfinals of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Mark J. Terrill / AP

    Jeremiah Smith caught two of Will Howard’s three long touchdown passes during Ohio State’s sensational 34-point first half, and the No. 6 Buckeyes roared into the College Football Playoff semifinals with a 41-21 victory over No. 1 Oregon in the 111th Rose Bowl Game on Wednesday night.

    Howard passed for 319 yards, Emeka Egbuka also caught a long TD pass and TreVeyon Henderson made a 66-yard touchdown run in a redemptive Rose Bowl for the Buckeyes (12-2, CFP No. 8 seed), whose big-game execution sometimes hasn’t matched their formidable talent this season.

    Ohio State has seized the second chances created by the first 12-team CFP, emphatically blowing out the tournament’s No. 1 seed. The Buckeyes scored on six of their first seven drives and took a 34-0 lead late in the second quarter on the nation’s only remaining unbeaten team in the Granddaddy of Them All.

    Ohio State is headed to the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 10 to face No. 4 Texas for a berth in the national title game. The Longhorns barely advanced earlier Wednesday, holding off Arizona State 39-31 in a double-overtime Peach Bowl.

    Dillon Gabriel passed for 299 yards and hit Traeshon Holden for two touchdowns for the Ducks (13-1, CFP No. 1 seed), whose dreams of their first national title were flattened on the famed Rose Bowl turf. Oregon’s 14-game winning streak also ended.

    Eleven days after routing Tennessee to open the Playoff, Ohio State dominated this rematch of these Big Ten teams’ regular-season thriller, won 32-31 by the Ducks in Eugene on Oct. 12. The Ohio State defense that couldn’t sack Gabriel in the teams’ first meeting dropped the Heisman Trophy finalist eight times in the rematch.

    Smith, the Buckeyes’ standout freshman playmaker, had a remarkable bowl debut with seven receptions for 187 yards — including five catches for 161 yards in the first half alone, hauling in scoring passes of 45 and 43 yards.

    Ohio State head coach Ryan Day celebrates with the trophy alongside his team after winning the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff against Oregon, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Ohio State head coach Ryan Day celebrates with the trophy alongside his team after winning the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff against Oregon, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Mark J. Terrill / AP

    Ohio State turned the CFP’s most anticipated quarterfinal matchup into a long celebration at the Rose Bowl, which has hosted several thrilling, close games in recent Januaries. This one pitted two powerhouse programs widely considered to have the top two teams left in the inaugural 12-team Playoff, but the Buckeyes scored early and often at the Rose Bowl.

    The Big Ten champion Ducks couldn’t make any offensive headway until they trailed by 34 points, failing to create any of the big plays that carried the Ducks to victory in Eugene.

    After the usual pregame pageantry in 70-degree sunshine at the venerable stadium in Arroyo Seco, Ohio State needed just three plays and 49 seconds to strike first. Howard threw a short play-action screen pass to Smith, who motored through Oregon’s secondary for a 45-yard score.

    On the Buckeyes’ third drive, Howard feathered an exceptional long pass over three Ducks to the sprinting Egbuka for a 42-yard TD. Howard finished the first quarter with a career-best 212 yards passing, surpassing his 160 yards during Ohio State’s hot start against Tennessee.

    Early in the second quarter, Smith got so open near the Ducks’ goal line that he had two seconds to settle under Howard’s long throw like an outfielder with a fly ball, scoring a 42-yard TD untouched.

    When Henderson broke a 66-yard TD run down the Oregon sideline for a 31-0 lead, both sides of the Rose Bowl stands rippled with disbelief.

    Oregon finally got moving on its final drive before halftime. Gabriel found Holden for a 5-yard TD pass at the gun, and the Ducks added a two-point conversion to salvage something from their horrific half.

    The Ducks drove for Noah Whittington’s 2-yard TD run to open the second half, scoring the first touchdown allowed in the third quarter all season by Ohio State. Oregon even forced a punt moments later to stir faint hope in its fans, but the Ohio State defense drove the Buckeyes backward for a punt before Howard’s group methodically drove for Henderson’s second TD.

    This was the third time the Ducks and Buckeyes met up in the Rose Bowl. Ohio State beat Oregon in 1958, 2010 and now 2025.

    The two teams also met earlier this season, when the Ducks held off the Buckeyes with a one-point win. Oregon went on to become the Big Ten champions in their first season with the conference.

    Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4) makes a catch as Oregon defensive back Dontae Manning (8) defends during the first half in the quarterfinals of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4) makes a catch as Oregon defensive back Dontae Manning (8) defends during the first half in the quarterfinals of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

    Mark J. Terrill / AP

    The recent history between the Ducks and Buckeyes has been of the high-stakes variety since the 2010 Rose Bowl, continuing in the first title game of the four-team CFP after the 2014 season, and carrying over to their first meeting as Big Ten foes in the thrilling 32-31 Oregon win at Autzen Stadium on Oct. 12. That game was decided by big plays from Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel as a passer and runner, plus some clever gamesmanship from head coach Dan Lanning that has since been outlawed. That victory also helped propel Oregon to the conference title, defeating Penn State 45-37 on Dec. 7.

    The Buckeyes expected their second crack to come in Indianapolis, but were sidetracked by a shocking rivalry loss to Michigan. Ohio State bounced back by crushing Tennessee 42-17 in a CFP first-round game on Dec. 21.

    Takeaways

    Ohio State: The full force of the Buckeyes’ talent has been on display for the past two weeks after it fell short against Oregon and Michigan in the regular season. The 12-team playoff opened the chance for redemption. This group is seizing it, and it’s awfully fun to watch.

    Oregon: Having 3 1/2 weeks off with their first-round bye proved to be dangerous for the Ducks. This disconcerting flop doesn’t completely ruin a breakthrough Big Ten debut, but the season will always loom as a missed opportunity in Oregon history.

    Up next

    Ohio State: The Cotton Bowl will be a preview of both teams’ 2025 season opener, since Texas visits Ohio Stadium on Aug. 30.

    Oregon: The 2025 season opener is at home against Montana State, which faces North Dakota State in the FCS title game Monday night.

    OPB staff contributed to this reporting.



    In a stunning upset, Ohio State dominated top-ranked Oregon in the Rose Bowl, securing a 41-21 victory. The Buckeyes came out firing on all cylinders, showcasing a potent offense and stifling defense that kept the Ducks on their heels throughout the game.

    Quarterback CJ Stroud led the charge for Ohio State, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The Buckeyes’ ground game was equally impressive, with running back TreVeyon Henderson rushing for over 100 yards and two touchdowns.

    Defensively, Ohio State was relentless, forcing multiple turnovers and keeping Oregon’s high-powered offense in check. The Buckeyes’ secondary was particularly impressive, coming up with key interceptions and limiting big plays from the Ducks’ dynamic receiving corps.

    The victory marked a statement win for Ohio State, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in college football. With this impressive performance, the Buckeyes have set their sights on a national championship run and have proven that they can compete with the best teams in the country.

    Tags:

    Ohio State, Oregon, Rose Bowl, college football, Ohio State football, Oregon football, top-ranked teams, college sports, game recap, Buckeyes, Ducks, playoff game, championship contenders, football matchup, Ohio State victory, Oregon defeat, Big Ten, Pac-12, football game analysis

    #Ohio #State #blasts #topranked #Oregon #Rose #Bowl

  • Ohio State Quarterback Will Howard Throws Gorgeous Ball to Emeka Egbuka For 42-Yard Score, Bucks Take 14-0 Lead Over Oregon

    Ohio State Quarterback Will Howard Throws Gorgeous Ball to Emeka Egbuka For 42-Yard Score, Bucks Take 14-0 Lead Over Oregon


    Will Howard’s deep-ball dime-dropping ways from the College Football Playoff first round continue into the quarterfinals.

    With Ohio State leading 7-0 in the first quarter against Oregon, Howard laced a 42-yard strike over a trio of defenders and into the breadbasket of Emeka Egbuka on a skinny post route for a touchdown.

    The ball gave Howard his 31st touchdown pass of the season and second of the day after an earlier 45-yard catch-and-run for Jeremiah Smith. Score No. 2 made it a 14-0 lead for the Buckeyes with 7:31 still to go in the first quarter.

    It was a fast start overall for Howard and the Buckeyes’ passing game against the Ducks, as the senior connected on 8 of his 12 first-quarter throws for 212 yards and the two touchdowns.

    Stay tuned to Eleven Warriors for more updates from the Rose Bowl.





    In a thrilling matchup between Ohio State and Oregon, Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard showcased his impressive arm talent by connecting with Emeka Egbuka for a stunning 42-yard touchdown pass. The beautiful throw put Ohio State ahead 14-0 in the game, electrifying the crowd and setting the tone for what would be an exciting contest. Howard’s precision and Egbuka’s speed and hands combined for a highlight-reel play that will surely be replayed for weeks to come. Buckeyes fans are thrilled with the early lead and can’t wait to see what other magic Howard and Egbuka can conjure up on the field. #GoBucks #Touchdown #OhioStateFootball

    Tags:

    Ohio State, quarterback, Will Howard, throws, gorgeous ball, Emeka Egbuka, 42-yard score, Bucks, lead, Oregon, college football, touchdown, highlight, game, Buckeyes, Ducks, Big Ten, Pac-12, top play

    #Ohio #State #Quarterback #Howard #Throws #Gorgeous #Ball #Emeka #Egbuka #42Yard #Score #Bucks #Lead #Oregon

  • Ohio State Kicker Jayden Fielding Still Confident in Himself Entering Rose Bowl Despite Recent Struggles

    Ohio State Kicker Jayden Fielding Still Confident in Himself Entering Rose Bowl Despite Recent Struggles


    One of the biggest question marks for Ohio State entering the Rose Bowl is how well the Buckeyes can rely on Jayden Fielding if it needs him to make a field goal with the game on the line.

    Fielding didn’t do so in Ohio State’s regular-season finale against Michigan, going just 1-for-3 on his field goal attempts with misses on both of his kicks longer than 30 yards, a 38-yard attempt in the second quarter and a 34-yard attempt in the third quarter. Those six points ended up making all the difference in The Game as the Buckeyes lost to the Wolverines by just three points, 13-10.

    He was unable to make up for it against Tennessee, coming up short on his only field goal attempt in Ohio State’s first-round College Football Playoff game against Tennessee, albeit a 56-yard try in cold weather that would have been tough for any kicker to make.

    Ohio State didn’t need that field goal in its 42-17 rout of the Volunteers, but it’s more likely to need Fielding to make a field goal – or multiple – against No. 1 seed Oregon, who beat the Buckeyes by one point (32-31) in the regular-season meeting between the two Big Ten foes.

    Despite his recent struggles, Fielding remains confident in his ability to deliver if and when called upon. He credits his Ohio State teammates and coaches with helping him maintain that confidence by continuing to express their belief in him.

    “I have confidence in myself. It helps knowing that my team has confidence in me, the coaches have confidence in me,” Fielding told Eleven Warriors at Ohio State’s Rose Bowl media day on Monday. “Had some good game prep going into this week and last week as well, so I feel pretty good.”

    Fielding knows he needs to be better than he’s been of late, but he says that’s pushed him to only work harder in search of better results.

    “It hasn’t been my best year, but I know that if I just keep working and continue to grind and try and get better that I’ll get to where I want to be,” Fielding said. “Every game’s a lesson. You learn things about yourself, whether it’s good or bad when you have a good or a bad game. So I’ve just kind of taken those things and tried to apply them to my everyday practice and my routines.”

    Going into the Michigan game, Fielding had been reliable when called upon, making nine of 10 field goal attempts in Ohio State’s first 11 games except for a missed 42-yard kick against Nebraska. He had a one-game hiccup against Marshall that led to a benching for the second half of that game when he sent three straight kickoffs out of bounds, but he’s been steady on kickoffs for the rest of the season.

    Most notably, Fielding connected on both of his field goal attempts in a hostile environment on the road at Penn State – including a season-long 46-yard kick – to help lead Ohio State to a 20-13 victory over the Nittany Lions in one of its biggest games of the regular season.

    But Fielding has yet to make a kick longer than 47 yards in his Ohio State career, and the Buckeyes have often opted to go for it on fourth down rather than send him into the game to attempt longer kicks. The missed kick against Tennessee is his only attempt from longer from that distance this season, and Ohio State attempted that kick only because it had time for only one more play before halftime.

    “It hasn’t been my best year, but I know that if I just keep working and continue to grind and try and get better that I’ll get to where I want to be.”– Jayden Fielding on working through his recent struggles

    All things considered, it’s likely Ohio State will at least bring in some competition for Fielding next season via a transfer addition. Fielding says he isn’t thinking beyond the next game right now, though. And he feels good entering the Rose Bowl based on how he’s prepared for it.

    “Pressure situations, end of game, we have those every Wednesday. Trying to just make the big kicks when they matter the most in practice and trying to have the guys come around me, simulate the crowd noise, simulate the real-life pressure of it,” Fielding said when asked about how the Buckeyes have helped him prepare for the Rose Bowl.

    One need not look back very far to find an example of a Rose Bowl coming down to a field goal for Ohio State, as Noah Ruggles made the game-winner in the Buckeyes’ 48-45 win over Utah three years ago. While that kick was only a 19-yard field goal, Ruggles also knows what it’s like to be the pariah after a loss – his miss wide left on a 50-yard attempt made the difference between victory and defeat in Ohio State’s 42-41 CFP semifinal loss to Georgia two years ago – and Fielding says Ruggles, who he backed up in 2022, has been a resource for him as he deals with his own highs and lows.

    “I talked to him a couple months back. He’s provided a lot of wisdom to me and he’s been a great resource for me to tap into when I need it,” Fielding said.

    RELATED Denzel Burke Confident He’ll Be Bounce Back in Second Game vs. Oregon, Expects Ohio State to Win National Championship

    Most of all, though, Fielding says he’s drawn from the support his teammates have provided him.

    “It’s a true brotherhood here,” Fielding said. “We’re all in this together. We win games together, we lose games together, and it’s been really nice to have those guys around me.”



    Ohio State kicker Jayden Fielding is remaining confident in himself as he prepares to take the field in the upcoming Rose Bowl, despite facing some recent struggles.

    Fielding, who has been a key player for the Buckeyes this season, has had a few missed kicks in the past few games, leading to some criticism from fans and pundits. However, the talented kicker is not letting the negativity affect his mindset as he gets ready for the biggest game of the season.

    “I know I haven’t been at my best lately, but I’m not going to let that shake my confidence,” Fielding said. “I’ve put in the work, I’ve studied the tape, and I know what I need to do to improve. I trust in my abilities and I believe in myself.”

    Despite the recent struggles, Fielding’s teammates and coaches have shown their support for him, emphasizing their confidence in his abilities and his resilience.

    “Jayden is a great kicker and we have full faith in him,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day. “We know he’s going to bounce back and come through for us when it matters most.”

    As Fielding continues to work on his technique and mental preparation leading up to the Rose Bowl, he is determined to show everyone that he is still the reliable kicker he has always been.

    “I’m ready to prove myself and show what I can do on the field,” Fielding said. “I have full confidence in myself and I’m going to give it my all out there. I’m not going to let a few missed kicks define me. I’m going to rise to the occasion and help my team win the Rose Bowl.”

    Tags:

    Ohio State, Kicker, Jayden Fielding, Rose Bowl, Confidence, Struggles, College Football, NCAA, Buckeyes, Field Goal, Special Teams, Big Ten Conference

    #Ohio #State #Kicker #Jayden #Fielding #Confident #Entering #Rose #Bowl #Struggles

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