Top Matchup in the College Football Playoff 1st Round is Ohio State Buckeyes Hosting Tennessee Volunteers
The Expanded College Football Playoff is here. The Tennessee Volunteers and Ohio State Buckeyes are both heading into their highly anticipated matchup with 10-2 records. Each team boasts standout strengths. They also face crucial challenges. As these two powerhouse teams prepare for battle, the outcome will hinge on key matchups. It will also depend on individual performances. Depth in critical positions will be crucial as well.
Tennessee Volunteers Dominant Defense and Potent Offense
Tennessee enters this game coming off a solid 36-23 victory over Vanderbilt, where their defense was relentless. The Volunteers allowed just 108 rushing yards and 104 passing yards, showcasing their exceptional defensive capabilities. Tennessee’s defense has been one of the best in the nation this season, allowing just 13.9 points per game, ranking them among the top teams in the country. Their run defense has been particularly stout, allowing only 2.8 yards per carry and fewer than 100 rushing yards per game.
Though the Volunteers have given up some passing yards, they excel at preventing big plays and limiting total yardage. This defense will be a significant challenge for Ohio State’s offense. The Buckeyes have struggled in the passing game at times this season.
On the offensive side, Tennessee has been highly effective. They have a balanced attack featuring both a potent passing and rushing game. Freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava has thrown for over 2,500 yards and 19 touchdowns with just five interceptions. Running back Dylan Sampson has rushed for more than 1,400 yards and set a school record with 22 touchdowns. The Volunteers average over 37 points per game. They boast a strong rushing game. Their average of 232 yards per contest ranks 9th in the nation. Tennessee’s recent success against Big Ten teams—winning four of their last five matchups—only adds to their confidence entering this game.
Ohio State Buckeyes Resilience and Powerful Offense
Ohio State, despite a tough 13-10 loss to Michigan, remains a formidable opponent. The Buckeyes struggled defensively in that game. They allowed 172 rushing yards. Their offense also struggled, finishing with just 252 total yards. However, Ohio State has been consistently strong offensively throughout the season. They average over 35 points per game and generate 423 yards per contest.
Senior quarterback Will Howard leads the team. He has thrown for over 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns. Ohio State’s passing game is one of the best in the country. Their running game is spearheaded by Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson. They have combined for over 1,500 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. This combination provides a dynamic and balanced offensive attack. Ohio State’s receiving corps includes standout wide receivers like Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate. Their talent adds another dimension to the offensive game plan. This makes them dangerous at any given moment.
On the defensive side, Ohio State has been a force to be reckoned with, particularly against the pass. The Buckeyes rank among the top teams in the nation, allowing only 144.3 yards per game through the air—the second fewest in the country. Their defense has been opportunistic, forcing turnovers with eight fumble recoveries and 10 interceptions. Ohio State has allowed just 10.9 points per game, ranking 1st nationally in points allowed. The challenge for the Buckeyes is to contain Tennessee’s high-powered offense. They have confidence because of their ability to step up in big games, especially at home.
Injury Concerns and Depth Issues
For Tennessee, linebacker Keenan Pili is sidelined with a knee injury. Defensive backs Christian Charles and Jourdan Thomas are both dealing with knee issues. Offensive linemen Vysen Lang and Cole Harrison, as well as defensive lineman Jordan Ross, are listed as questionable. These absences could affect Tennessee’s defensive prowess and depth. However, the Volunteers still have a solid pool of talent to rely on.
On the Ohio State side, offensive linemen Seth McLaughlin and Josh Simmons are dealing with injuries. McLaughlin is recovering from an Achilles injury. Simmons is struggling with a knee issue. Zen Michalski, another offensive lineman, is listed with a lower-body injury. Running back TC Caffey is out with a knee injury. Wide receivers Reis Stocksdale and Nolan Baudo are both considered questionable. Ohio State’s offensive line will need to step up. The receiving corps also needs to perform well if key players are unable to participate. This is crucial, especially in such a high-stakes matchup.
A Battle of Strengths
Tennessee and Ohio State each bring impressive strengths. They also have vulnerabilities that will play a pivotal role in the outcome of this game. Tennessee’s elite defense is ranked among the best in the nation. It is set to challenge Ohio State’s offense. This is particularly true given the Buckeyes’ struggles in the passing game. Ohio State’s offense is potent. Quarterback Will Howard leads it along with a powerful rushing attack. They have the potential to exploit Tennessee’s defense. Both teams have high-powered offenses. They also feature formidable defenses. This matchup is shaping up to be a thrilling and tightly contested battle.
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Spread: Tennessee Volunteers +7 ½ (-115) – Ohio State Buckeyes -7 ½ (-105)
Money line: Tennessee Volunteers +230 – Ohio State Buckeyes -280
Total: O 46 -110 – U 46 -110
The Dart Throw: This game has all the makings of being a instant classic. Both teams are laden with talent and are looking to redeem themselves from a disappointing regular season. The issue is that you never really know how good Ohio State is. You never really know how good any Big Ten team is either. The Tennessee Volunteers have been put thru the fire. Even in a down year for the SEC, the Vols have been tried and tested. This will be the difference in this matchup. Look for the Ohio State Buckeyes to fall short once again in prime-time. You can safely take the over and the +7.5 points.
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