For the first time in program history, the Tennessee Volunteers are heading to the College Football Playoff. Their reward? A date with perennial powerhouse Ohio State in the semifinals. The Volunteers opened as a 6.5-point underdog on the road, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash between two of college football’s most electrifying teams.
The game, set to take place at a neutral site, will pit Tennessee’s explosive offense against Ohio State’s balanced attack and seasoned defense. While the Buckeyes have more playoff experience and are viewed as the favorite, the Vols enter with momentum, confidence, and a roster hungry to prove itself on the national stage.
Tennessee’s rise to the College Football Playoff has been nothing short of remarkable. Under head coach Josh Heupel, the Volunteers finished the regular season 11-1 and captured the SEC Championship with a dominant win over Alabama. Their lone loss, a road defeat to Florida early in the season, became a distant memory as Tennessee reeled off victories against top teams, including a signature win over Georgia.
Quarterback Joe Milton III has been the driving force behind Tennessee’s success. Known for his cannon-like arm, Milton has showcased growth in his decision-making and leadership, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns this season. Milton’s deep-ball accuracy and poise under pressure have been complemented by the play of standout wide receiver Squirrel White and a powerful running game led by Jaylen Wright and Jabari Small.
On the defensive side, Tennessee’s aggressive front seven has been a difference-maker. Linebacker Aaron Beasley and edge rusher James Pearce Jr. have led a unit that thrives on creating turnovers and disrupting opposing quarterbacks.
Ohio State, under head coach Ryan Day, boasts one of the most complete teams in the nation. The Buckeyes finished 12-1, with their only loss coming against Michigan in the final week of the regular season. Despite the defeat, Ohio State’s resume and overall strength earned them a spot in the playoff, making this their fifth playoff appearance since 2014.
The Buckeyes’ offense is led by quarterback Kyle McCord, who has thrived in his first season as a starter. McCord benefits from an elite receiving corps featuring Marvin Harrison Jr., widely regarded as the best wide receiver in college football. Ohio State’s ground game, led by TreVeyon Henderson, adds another layer of complexity for defenses.
Defensively, Ohio State is no slouch, ranking among the nation’s top units in scoring defense and total defense. The Buckeyes’ physical front and disciplined secondary will present Tennessee with one of its toughest
Despite their success, Tennessee enters as a 6.5-point underdog, reflecting Ohio State’s playoff pedigree and balanced roster. The Buckeyes’ experience on the big stage gives them an edge, particularly when it comes to preparation and execution in high-pressure situations.
The line also accounts for Ohio State’s ability to control games with their defense and efficiency on offense. The Buckeyes’ ability to limit explosive plays and sustain long drives poses a significant challenge for Tennessee’s fast-paced attack.
However, Tennessee has shown it can rise to the occasion, particularly against Georgia, where the Vols overcame a stout defense and delivered a season-defining victory.
For Tennessee to pull off the upset, they’ll need Joe Milton to deliver one of his best performances of the season. The Vols thrive on big plays, and Milton’s ability to stretch the field will be crucial against a disciplined Ohio State secondary.
Defensively, Tennessee must find a way to contain Marvin Harrison Jr. and disrupt Kyle McCord’s rhythm. Generating pressure up front will be key, as giving McCord time to operate could spell trouble for the Vols.
Special teams could also play a pivotal role. Tennessee’s ability to flip the field with strong punting and capitalize on field goal opportunities may be the difference in what’s expected to be a closely contested game.
Regardless of the betting line, Tennessee has already made history by reaching the College Football Playoff. The Volunteers have a chance to solidify their return to prominence with a victory over one of the sport’s blueblood programs.
For Vol fans, the underdog label is nothing new. Tennessee has spent years clawing its way back to relevance, and now, the Vols have a chance to show the college football world that they belong on the sport’s biggest stage.
As the game approaches, one thing is certain: the clash between Tennessee and Ohio State will be a must-watch, with the potential to produce unforgettable moments and solidify legacies. For the Volunteers, the path to glory runs through Ohio State, and they’ll embrace the challenge with the passion and determination that has defined their season.