Oregon's Title Hopes Dashed

Coming into the 2024 season as one of the frontrunners for the national title, the Ducks experienced a rollercoaster ride, narrowly escaping defeats against FCS opponent Idaho and Boise State before finally finishing the season undefeated. However, their return to the postseason became a nightmare as they faced off against Ohio State. Despite ample preparation time, Oregon's execution fell short, leading many to question if this highly-touted team could ever grasp that elusive national championship. The offseason will be critical for Coach Dan Lanning as he seeks to rejuvenate the program heading into 2025.

Ohio State's Resounding Comeback

The Buckeyes, carrying the pain of their earlier loss to Michigan, showcased a transformed team on Wednesday. Ohio State's offensive scheme flourished with the dynamic duo of Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, alongside the explosive TreVeyon Henderson, who invigorated their run game. Furthermore, the Buckeyes' defense, which previously struggled against Oregon, responded emphatically, sacking quarterback Dillon Gabriel eight times and disrupting his game plan. Ohio State set the tone for the game from the very first minute, scoring within three plays and establishing dominance, unlike their previous encounter in October, when Oregon had edged them out in a nail-biting finish.

Jeremiah Smith: A Star in the Making

The highlight of the game was undoubtedly Jeremiah Smith, a sensational freshman receiver who demonstrated his star potential by racking up 187 yards and two touchdowns on just seven catches. If he were eligible for the NFL Draft this spring, he would likely be a prime candidate for the first overall pick, cementing his status as a generational talent. Smith’s performance epitomized Ohio State's receiver legacy, following in the footsteps of legends like Garrett Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr.

A Comprehensive Victory

With the game ending 41-21, Ohio State's early lead proved insurmountable. Despite a brief rally from Oregon that cut the deficit to 19 points midway through the third quarter, the Buckeyes swiftly quelled any hopes of a comeback. Ohio State managed to build a significant cushion, leading by as much as 34 points in the first half, illustrating their control over the game. Oregon, missing key offensive players like star wide receiver Evan Stewart, struggled to find rhythm and coherence, finishing with a meager 21 rushing yards and unable to capitalize on their passing game despite Gabriel's impressive yardage.

Next Up: The Cotton Bowl Semifinal

With this victory, Ohio State improved to 13-1, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash against fifth-seeded Texas in the Cotton Bowl semifinal. As the Buckeyes prepare for this next challenge, they carry with them the momentum and confidence gained from such a decisive win over Oregon. As fans gear up for what promises to be an electrifying playoff journey, the questions linger: Can Ohio State continue their redemption arc? Will Oregon be able to rise from their postseason disappointments? The answers await in the upcoming matchups!