Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, wearing jersey number 4, celebrated scoring a touchdown against Oregon during the first half of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinals. The game took place on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Mark J. Terrill/AP)
In a commanding performance at the 111th Rose Bowl, the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes dismantled top-ranked Oregon 41-21, earning a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. After a rocky season with narrow losses, including one to Oregon earlier in October, Ohio State used this game as a chance for redemption and seized it with unmatched determination.
Ohio State came out swinging, scoring on six of their first seven drives to take a 34-0 lead by late in the second quarter. Quarterback Will Howard threw three touchdown passes in the first half, including two to star receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith had a phenomenal night, catching seven passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns. Running back TreVeyon Henderson added to the fireworks with a 66-yard touchdown run.
Redemption After a Tough Season
Coach Ryan Day emphasized resilience and the importance of second chances before the game. The Buckeyes responded, shaking off earlier season heartbreaks, including a devastating loss to Michigan. "This was about showing the world what we’re capable of when we play as one," said Day.
Emeka Egbuka, another standout, praised his team’s focus despite heavy criticism earlier in the season. "Five weeks ago, people doubted us, but we stayed true to ourselves," he shared.
Oregon’s Struggles
The Ducks, riding a 14-game winning streak into the Rose Bowl, couldn’t match Ohio State's intensity. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel threw for 299 yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Ohio State’s relentless attack. Missing key player Evan Stewart due to injury, Oregon's offence lacked the explosive plays that defined their season. Coach Dan Lanning admitted, "We couldn’t stop them or get any momentum."
Game Highlights
Ohio State's defence was just as dominant, sacking Gabriel eight times and silencing Oregon’s usually dynamic offence. Meanwhile, Howard had a career night, throwing for 319 yards, including a stunning 42-yard touchdown pass to Egbuka. The Buckeyes made history, marking their largest margin of victory against a No. 1-ranked team.
What’s Next?
Ohio State advances to the Cotton Bowl to face No. 4 Texas on January 10, a preview of their 2025 season opener. For Oregon, this defeat ends their breakthrough season in the Big Ten on a sour note. Their 2025 campaign kicks off at home against Montana State.
Takeaways
For Ohio State, this victory is a testament to their grit and ability to deliver under pressure. For Oregon, the loss underscores the unpredictability of college football and raises questions about playoff reseeding rules.
