Ohio State Buckeyes Secure Spot in CFP Semifinal with Resounding Win Over Oregon in Rose Bowl
In a stunning display of dominance, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured their spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal with a resounding 41-21 victory over top-ranked Oregon in the Rose Bowl on Wednesday. This victory not only showcased the Buckeyes’ formidable talent but also allowed them to reclaim the spotlight in the Big 10 conference.
Explosive First Half Performance Propels Ohio State to Victory
The Buckeyes wasted no time making their mark on the game, with Jeremiah Smith catching two of Will Howard’s three long touchdown passes during Ohio State’s sensational 34-point first half. Howard’s impressive passing performance, with 319 yards, combined with Emeka Egbuka’s long TD reception and TreVeyon Henderson’s 66-yard touchdown run, showcased the Buckeyes’ offensive firepower.
Ohio State Takes Advantage of Expanded CFP Format
Ohio State’s victory is even more significant considering the expanded 12-team CFP format. The Buckeyes, seeded eighth, capitalized on their second chance in the tournament by emphatically blowing out the top-seeded Oregon Ducks. This win solidifies Ohio State’s status as a national title contender and proves that their big-game execution matches their formidable talent.
Next Stop: Cotton Bowl
The Buckeyes’ journey continues as they head to the Cotton Bowl on January 10 to face the fourth-seeded Texas Longhorns. A victory in this game will secure their place in the national title game, further cementing Ohio State’s status as one of the top teams in college football.
Oregon’s Dream of a National Title Crushed
For the Oregon Ducks, their dreams of winning their first national title were shattered on the famed Rose Bowl turf. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s impressive performance, with 299 passing yards and two touchdowns, was not enough to overcome Ohio State’s dominant display. The Ducks’ 14-game winning streak came to an end, marking a disappointing conclusion to their sensational inaugural season in the Big 10.
Gabriel’s College Career Comes to an End
The Rose Bowl defeat also marks the end of Dillon Gabriel’s six-year college career. Throughout his career, Gabriel has been recognized as one of the best quarterbacks in college football. In 2024, he was named a first-team All-American, Big 10 MVP, and Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year. This season, he led the Big 10 in both passing yards (3,558) and completions (297). Gabriel’s impressive performance has positioned him as a second-tier quarterback prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead
As Gabriel’s college career comes to a close, he now sets his sights on the NFL Draft and the opportunity to continue his football journey at the professional level. It will be interesting to see where Gabriel’s talent and potential take him in the next phase of his career.
In conclusion, Ohio State’s victory in the Rose Bowl solidifies their position as a top contender in college football. Their dominant performance against Oregon showcases their talent and sets them on a path to compete for the national title. Meanwhile, Gabriel’s impressive college career has come to an end, and the NFL Draft awaits him as he looks to take the next step in his football journey.
