The upcoming College Football Playoff first-round game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Ohio State Buckeyes is set to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams have had impressive seasons, and this matchup will determine who advances to face the No. 1 seed, Oregon, in the Rose Bowl.
The College Football Playoff Committee announced the matchups this afternoon and the Vols will head to Columbus to face the Buckeyes on December 21st at 8pm EST. Tennessee finished off their regular season with a 36-23 win at Vanderbilt. Ohio State lost again to Michigan 13-10 at home to cap their regular season.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Overview
Tennessee Volunteers
The Volunteers finished the regular season with a 10-2 record, earning them the No. 9 seed in the CFP. Led by head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has shown resilience and determination throughout the season. The Volunteers have a balanced offense, with standout performances from quarterback Nico Iamaleava and running back Dylan Sampson.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes also finished the regular season with a 10-2 record, securing the No. 8 seed in the CFP. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State boasts one of the nation’s top defenses, allowing just 10.9 points per game and 241.1 yards per game. The Buckeyes have key players like quarterback Will Howard and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has been a star as a freshman.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Key Matchups
Offensive Line vs. Defensive Line
The battle in the trenches will be crucial for both teams. Tennessee’s offensive line will need to protect Nico Iamaleava and create running lanes for Dylan Sampson against Ohio State’s formidable defensive line. On the flip side, Ohio State’s offensive line will be tasked with giving Will Howard time to throw and opening up holes for TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins.
The matchup between Tennessee’s wide receivers and Ohio State’s cornerbacks will be another key factor. Dont’e Thornton, Bru McCoy, and the rest of the Volunteers’ receiving corps will need to find ways to get open against Ohio State’s top-ranked pass defense, which allows just 144.3 passing yards per game. Ohio State’s cornerbacks will be tested by Thornton’s speed and route-running ability.
The battle between Tennessee’s running backs and Ohio State’s linebackers will be critical in determining the ground game’s success. Dylan Samspon and Peyton Lewis will need to break through Ohio State’s strong run defense, which allows just 96.8 yards per game. Ohio State’s linebackers will be tasked with stopping the run and making tackles behind the line of scrimmage.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Game Strategy
The Volunteers will likely look to establish a balanced attack, mixing the run and pass to keep Ohio State’s defense guessing. Nico Iamaleava will need to hone in on his ability to stretch the field with his deep ball. He has missed too many potential big plays this season and will need to connect on some for the Vols to win. Dylan Sampson’s running will help control the clock and keep the Buckeyes’ offense off the field. He needs to eliminate the fumbling issues that have cost Tennessee points.
The Buckeyes will rely on their top-ranked defense to contain Tennessee’s offense. Ohio State’s defensive line will aim to pressure Iamaleava and disrupt the Volunteers’ passing game. On offense, Will Howard will need to make smart decisions and utilize his three headed monster at wide receiver to move the ball down the field. TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins will need to help Howard out in the run game for the Buckeyes to be successful.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Key Players to Watch
Tennessee Volunteers QB Nico Iamaleava
Iamaleava has been a standout performer for the Volunteers. He went through a bit of a midseason struggle, but has bounced back over the last several weeks to lead the Vols to the CFP. He will need to find ways to use his legs and avoid catastrophic turnovers against Ohio State’s top-ranked pass defense.
Tennessee Volunteers RB Dylan Sampson
Sampson has been one of the best running backs in the country this season. He broke the school record for yards in a season with 1,485 yards and touchdowns with 22. His ability to make big plays will be key in controlling the game’s tempo and keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field.
Tennessee Volunteers WRs Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Bru McCoy
Both finished the regular season injured. How they progress in their recovery will be crucial to Tennessee’s offensive success. McCoy is a dependable short to intermediate target, but will need to be fed the ball more consistently. Thornton needs to break open downfield and haul in 50/50 balls to create explosive, chunk plays.
Tennessee CBs Jermod McCoy and Ricky Gibson III
Jermod McCoy and Rickey Gibson III will be major keys for Tennessee against Ohio State. McCoy’s ability to read the offense and make interceptions will be crucial, while Gibson III’s coverage skills will be tested against the Buckeyes receivers. Both players will need to step up to help contain the Buckeyes’ passing attack.
Ohio State Buckeyes QB Will Howard
Howard will need to make smart decisions and utilize his weapons effectively to move the ball against Tennessee’s defense. His ability to avoid turnovers will be crucial. He has struggled heavily at times this season, so his decision making will be a major factor.
Ohio State Buckeyes WRs Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate
Smith has been a star as a freshman, and his playmaking ability will be a key factor in Ohio State’s offensive success. Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate will be key targets for Ohio State against Tennessee. Egbuka’s precise route running and ability to create separation will challenge Tennessee’s secondary. Tate, known for his spectacular catches, will look to make big plays downfield. All three receivers will be crucial in Ohio State’s offensive game plan.
Ohio State Buckeyes DE JT Tuimoloau
Tuimoloau has been one of the best edge rushers in the Big Ten over the last few seasons. His ability to get to the quarterback will be paramount in order to keep Iamaleava from escaping the pocket. If he can contain the mobile QB, Ohio State’s defense should be able to make Tennessee less dynamic.
Ohio State Buckeyes CB Davison Igbinosun
Ohio State’s standout cornerback, will face a tough challenge against Tennessee’s dynamic offense. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Igbinosun will need to be at his best to contain Tennessee’s passing attack and make crucial plays in the secondary. His performance could be a game-changer in this high-stakes matchup.
Final Thoughts
The Tennessee vs. Ohio State matchup is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams bringing their best to the field. The game will likely come down to which team can execute their game plan more effectively and make key plays in critical moments. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle, with both teams vying for a spot in the Rose Bowl. The winner will face the top seeded Oregon Ducks in the quarterfinals.
