The Ohio State football team faced significant criticism following their loss to Michigan. However, they silenced doubters with an impressive 42-17 victory over Tennessee in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes showcased their strengths on both offense and defense, setting the stage for a quarterfinal rematch with top-ranked Oregon in the Rose Bowl on January 1st. This article evaluates Ohio State’s performance across various aspects of the game.

Offensive Breakthrough: Unleashing Hidden Potential

Ohio State’s offensive display was nothing short of spectacular. By focusing on their external talents, the Buckeyes managed to open up the game effectively. Quarterback Will Howard excelled, completing 24 out of 29 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith emerged as a standout player, catching six passes for 103 yards and two touchdowns. Running back TreVeyon Henderson also contributed significantly with 80 yards and two touchdowns on just 10 carries.

The Buckeyes’ offensive strategy against Tennessee was a stark contrast to their previous tactics against Michigan. Instead of a run-heavy approach, they utilized their speed and agility to exploit the Volunteers' defense. Howard’s performance was nearly flawless, except for an end-zone interception that could have been avoided. Despite this minor setback, his overall contribution was pivotal in securing the win. The offensive staff’s ability to adapt and play to the team’s strengths was evident throughout the game, leading to a dominant offensive showing.

Defensive Mastery: Controlling the Game

On the defensive front, Ohio State demonstrated exceptional control. Tennessee’s star running back Dylan Sampson, hampered by a hamstring injury, managed only two carries for six yards. The Volunteers struggled to gain momentum, with no other runners finding room to maneuver. While quarterback Nico Iamaleava provided some relief with his elusive running, he couldn’t prevent the Buckeyes from stifling the Tennessee attack.

The defensive unit, led by Jim Knowles, excelled in stopping the run and putting constant pressure on Iamaleava. At one point, Ohio State had amassed more points (21) than Tennessee had yards (16), highlighting the dominance of the Buckeyes' defense. The inability of the Volunteers to establish a consistent offensive rhythm made it difficult for them to mount any meaningful challenge. Even with Sampson sidelined, Ohio State’s defense remained relentless, ensuring that Tennessee never found its footing.