The College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Presented by Prudential brings together two of the sport’s most storied programs, No. 1 Oregon and No. 8 Ohio State, in a clash of Big Ten powerhouses. The stakes couldn’t be higher: a coveted spot in the semifinals of the newly expanded 12-team playoff.
This matchup rekindles a thrilling rivalry that has unfolded on some of college football’s grandest stages. From the 2010 Rose Bowl to the inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015, and most recently, a dramatic 32-31 Oregon victory in October, the Ducks and Buckeyes have a habit of meeting under high-pressure circumstances.
For Oregon, that narrow win at Autzen Stadium was the turning point of a banner year. Led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel and head coach Dan Lanning’s innovative strategies, the Ducks cruised to their first Big Ten title, defeating Penn State 45-37 in Indianapolis. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s playoff hopes took a hit with a stunning loss to Michigan, but the Buckeyes rebounded emphatically with a 42-17 thrashing of Tennessee in the first round of the CFP.
Now, under the bright lights of the Rose Bowl, these two programs collide again in what promises to be another instant classic.
Ohio State Wide Receivers vs. Oregon’s Secondary. Ohio State’s passing game is the engine of its offense, and against Tennessee, it was firing on all cylinders. Freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith and veteran Emeka Egbuka combined for nearly 200 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing the Buckeyes’ ability to dominate through the air.
Oregon’s secondary, though undersized, has been fearless all season. Tysheem Johnson, with three interceptions, has emerged as a leader, while Nikko Reed and Dontae Manning have made timely plays in critical moments. For the Ducks to advance, their secondary must find a way to disrupt the rhythm of Ohio State quarterback Will Howard and his dynamic receivers.
Ohio State QB Will Howard has a score to settle after his October misstep against the Ducks—a game-ending slide that left Ohio State agonizingly short. Coming off a stellar performance against Tennessee (311 yards, 2 TDs), Howard has a chance to rewrite his story.
Oregon WR Tez Johnson Back at full strength after a November shoulder injury, Johnson was electric in the Big Ten Championship, racking up 181 yards and a touchdown to earn MVP honors. His big-play ability could be the X-factor in breaking open a game against the Buckeyes’ defense.
The Rose Bowl will showcase two contrasting styles: Ohio State’s high-flying aerial attack against Oregon’s balanced approach, led by Gabriel’s dual-threat capabilities and a defense that thrives on creating turnovers.
Ohio State’s ability to stretch the field vertically will test the Ducks’ secondary like no opponent has this season. Meanwhile, Oregon will look to exploit the Buckeyes’ defense with Gabriel’s mobility and Johnson’s explosiveness.
With both teams hungry for a spot in the semifinals, this game is shaping up as another chapter in a rivalry defined by unforgettable moments.
