The Ohio State Buckeyes showcased their prowess in the opening phases of games during the College Football Playoff (CFP), setting a relentless pace that overwhelmed opponents. In particular, their first-quarter performances were nothing short of extraordinary, establishing an early rhythm that defined their success throughout the tournament. With unmatched offensive and defensive efforts, the Buckeyes outpaced Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame by a combined score of 42-7 in the initial 15 minutes, leaving little doubt about their intentions.

As the competition intensified, Ohio State's ability to sustain momentum became evident. The second quarter continued their dominance, though slightly less pronounced than the explosive beginnings. Against Ducks and Volunteers, the Buckeyes extended their leads significantly, capitalizing on both sides of the ball. Head coach Ryan Day emphasized the importance of fast starts, noting how execution fuels emotion and sets the tone for the entire game. This philosophy bore fruit as Ohio State dismantled Oregon, taking a commanding 34-0 lead at one point against the top-seeded team, ultimately cruising to a 41-21 victory.

The narrative of Ohio State’s CFP journey is one of resilience and adaptability. While halftime adjustments did not yield as dramatic results as the first half, they proved crucial in maintaining control over their opponents. Against Texas, when the stakes were highest, the Buckeyes delivered under pressure, executing a critical drive to retake the lead before securing a historic goal-line stand. Similarly, against Notre Dame, despite a late rally from the Fighting Irish, Ohio State sealed their championship with a memorable pass now famously known as "3rd-and-Jeremiah." These pivotal moments underscored the Buckeyes' commitment to excellence and their capacity to rise to challenges, culminating in their rightful claim to the CFP national championship trophy. Their story serves as a testament to preparation, teamwork, and the power of starting strong to achieve greatness.