Ohio State secured its spot in the prestigious Rose Bowl after a commanding 42-17 victory over Tennessee on Saturday. Quarterback Will Howard played a pivotal role, throwing for 311 yards and delivering three touchdown passes, while three different Buckeyes each found the end zone twice, leading their team to a decisive win.
The game began with an explosive first half that set the tone for Ohio State’s dominance. Howard, who has steadily risen to the occasion in recent weeks, looked poised and confident as he orchestrated the offense. His first touchdown pass came in the second quarter, a beautifully thrown ball that found the hands of wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Harrison was a constant threat throughout the game, contributing significantly to Howard’s impressive yardage total.
The Buckeyes’ rushing attack was equally effective, with running backs Miyan Williams and TreVeyon Henderson each adding a touchdown to the tally. Henderson’s 34-yard run in the third quarter showcased his speed and vision, giving Ohio State a commanding lead that Tennessee struggled to recover from.
Despite Tennessee’s best efforts, which included a few strong drives and a touchdown from quarterback Joe Milton, the Volunteers were unable to keep pace with Ohio State’s offensive firepower. Tennessee’s defense was repeatedly caught off guard by Ohio State’s ability to attack both the air and ground game effectively.
On defense, the Buckeyes were relentless. Led by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State stifled Tennessee’s offensive threats, limiting their big plays and forcing crucial turnovers. The defense’s pressure on Milton and key stops in the red zone played a significant role in preventing Tennessee from narrowing the gap.
As the game progressed, it was clear that Ohio State’s depth and balance on both sides of the ball would be too much for Tennessee to overcome. Howard’s accuracy, combined with his dynamic receiving corps and an unyielding defense, propelled the Buckeyes to their 42-point showing.
This victory not only secured Ohio State a berth in the Rose Bowl but also solidified their standing as one of the nation’s elite teams. With the win, the Buckeyes look forward to the upcoming postseason with confidence, knowing they have the tools to compete for a national championship.
For Tennessee, the loss is a tough blow, but they can take solace in the effort shown by their players, who battled until the final whistle. Nonetheless, Ohio State’s performance was a clear reminder of their championship potential as they now set their sights on Pasadena in the New Year.