Ohio State Post Game Thoughts
By: Zayd Hussein 12/22/2024
In a decisive first-round College Football Playoff matchup, Ohio State crushed Tennessee 42-17 at Ohio Stadium. The game was essentially over by halftime, with the Buckeyes jumping out to a commanding 21-0 lead thanks to quarterback Will Howard’s precision passing and the explosive plays from standout freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who caught two touchdowns. Howard finished the night with 311 passing yards, showcasing his ability to lead the offense even under scrutiny. Tennessee tried to rally with a field goal and a Nico Iamaleava touchdown run before the break, but it was too little too late against Ohio State’s relentless defense and balanced attack.
The second half was similar for Ohio State, who continued to dominate offensively and defensively. TreVeyon Henderson added to the Buckeye lead with a 24-yard rushing touchdown, while the defense kept Tennessee’s offense in check, forcing punts and turnovers. Ohio State’s performance silenced critics and secured their spot against Oregon in the Rose Bowl, proving they are a force to be reckoned with in this year’s playoff.
The reasons Ohio State should hoist the championship trophy are becoming clearer. The Buckeyes have shown they can handle high-pressure situations with their impressive playoff opener and have the depth and talent to outlast any opponent. With Howard’s experience and the dynamic playmaking of Smith, Ohio State’s offense looks unstoppable, capable of adapting to any defensive strategy thrown at them. On defense, their ability to shut down Tennessee suggests they can tackle the challenges posed by teams like Oregon or Georgia. Moreover, the psychological momentum from this game, combined with their history of rising to the occasion, makes Ohio State the team to beat. They’ve got the perfect mix of seasoned veterans and hungry newcomers, all driven by a desire to prove last year’s disappointment was a fluke. If they keep playing with this level of intensity and execution, there’s no doubt Ohio State will be celebrating come the national championship game.
