The Ohio State Buckeyes delivered a dominant performance in the Rose Bowl, defeating the top-ranked Oregon Ducks 41-21 and securing their spot in the College Football Playoff semifinal. Quarterback Will Howard shone with three long touchdown passes, two of which were caught by receiver Jeremiah Smith. Howard amassed 319 passing yards, while Emeka Egbuka also snagged a long TD pass and TreVeyon Henderson contributed a 66-yard touchdown run. This impressive offensive display showcased the Buckeyes' talent and marked a strong rebound from earlier inconsistencies this season.
Ohio State's victory over the previously undefeated Ducks was a statement win in the first 12-team CFP. They capitalized on their opportunities, scoring on six of their first seven drives and building a commanding 34-0 lead by the second quarter. This win propels them to the Cotton Bowl, where they will face Texas for a coveted spot in the national championship game.
While Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel put up respectable numbers with 299 passing yards and two touchdowns to Traeshon Holden, the Ducks' high-powered offense couldn't keep pace with Ohio State. This loss snapped Oregon's 14-game winning streak and ended their hopes of a national title. Freshman standout Jeremiah Smith had a breakout performance for the Buckeyes, catching seven passes for 187 yards, including five receptions for 161 yards in the first half alone.
This Rose Bowl game also marked the conclusion of Dillon Gabriel's collegiate career. The first-team All-American and Big 10 MVP had a stellar season leading the conference in passing yards and completions. Having played at UCF and Oklahoma before joining Oregon, Gabriel now sets his sights on the NFL Draft.
