The Ohio State Buckeyes face the Oregon Ducks on New Year’s Day in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup at the Rose Bowl. This rematch of a thrilling early-season game, won by Oregon 32-31, is set to kick off at 5:00 PM EST in Pasadena, California. Ohio State comes into the game after a dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee, while Oregon earned a first-round bye as the top seed in the playoff. Both teams have plenty on the line, making this one of the biggest games of the season. For bookies looking to capitalize on the action, WagerHome provides the best Pay Per Head services to elevate your betting business.
The Ducks enter the game undefeated at 13-0 and are aiming to complete a perfect season in their first year in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes, at 11-2, are looking for revenge and a chance to keep their championship hopes alive. Let’s break down what to expect from both teams and offer the best predictions for this must-watch game.
Ohio State Preview – Seeking Redemption in Pasadena
The Buckeyes are riding high after a commanding win over Tennessee. Quarterback Will Howard shined with 311 passing yards and two touchdowns, while running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson combined for four scores on the ground. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith added six catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns, earning Player of the Game honors.
Ohio State’s defense, ranked first in the nation, has been the backbone of their success. Against Tennessee, the unit allowed just 256 yards and sacked the quarterback four times. Led by JT Tuimoloau, who recorded two sacks, the Buckeyes will aim to contain Oregon’s high-powered offense. Key injuries to players like WR Nolan Baudo and OL Seth McLaughlin could be a challenge, but Ohio State’s depth and balanced attack give them a solid chance.
Oregon Preview – Staying Perfect in the Playoff
The Ducks have dominated all season, capped by a 45-37 win over Penn State in the Big Ten Championship. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel, the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, threw for 283 yards and four touchdowns in that game. Wide receiver Tez Johnson was unstoppable with 181 receiving yards and a touchdown, while RB Jordan James added 87 rushing yards and two scores.
Defensively, Oregon struggled to contain Penn State’s offense, allowing 523 total yards. Despite this, the Ducks rank ninth in scoring defense this season and have shown an ability to create turnovers. Injuries to key players like TE Roger Saleapaga and OL Matthew Bedford could limit their options, but the Ducks’ offensive firepower and clutch performances make them dangerous.
PPH Betting Prediction
The Lions come into the game as slight favorites, but Ohio State’s elite defense and revenge factor make this a tight matchup. The total is set at 66.5, suggesting plenty of points will be scored. Oregon’s offensive efficiency and Ohio State’s ability to control the game in the trenches will be the deciding factors.
Pick: Ohio State +3
Conclusion
The Ohio State vs. Oregon matchup at the Rose Bowl promises to deliver fireworks as both teams battle for a spot in the semifinals. For bookies, this game is a golden opportunity to engage bettors and grow your business. With WagerHome, you can provide top-notch Pay Per Head services and take your sportsbook to the next level. Don’t miss out on this New Year’s Day showdown—prepare your players and maximize your profits today!
