As the College Football Playoff approaches, analysts and fans are fervently debating the outcome of the upcoming matchup between the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes and the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers, scheduled for December 21, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET in Columbus. The betting line currently favors Ohio State by 7.5 points, with an over/under of 47 points.
Contrary to the betting odds, some analysts predict a different outcome. Brooks Austin, a college football analyst known for his in-depth film studies, forecasts a victory for Tennessee. He cites two primary reasons: Tennessee’s superior running game and a more capable quarterback. Austin notes that the Volunteers’ rushing attack, led by SEC Offensive Player of the Year Dylan Sampson, has outperformed expectations, while quarterback Nico Iamaleava has shown increasing confidence and skill as the season progressed.
Ohio State’s defense, however, presents a formidable challenge. The Buckeyes rank fourth nationally in total defense, allowing only 278.3 yards per game, and are also fourth in scoring defense, conceding just 13.9 points per game. Their disciplined play is further evidenced by their low penalty rate, making them one of the least-penalized teams in the nation.
Tennessee’s offense, known for its high tempo and explosive plays, will test Ohio State’s defensive prowess. The Volunteers have demonstrated their offensive capabilities by scoring a combined 191 points against their first three non-conference opponents, while allowing only 13 points defensively. However, their tendency to incur penalties, averaging 8.5 per game, could hinder their performance against a disciplined Buckeyes squad.
Fan sentiment appears cautiously optimistic for Ohio State. A survey conducted by Land-Grant Holy Land indicates that fans are eager to see improvements in offensive play-calling and defensive performance, especially after a disappointing regular-season loss. The same source notes that analytics models favor Ohio State by six points, slightly below the betting line.
In summary, while betting odds and defensive statistics favor Ohio State, analysts like Brooks Austin highlight Tennessee’s potent offense and capable quarterback play as potential game-changers. The Volunteers’ ability to execute their high-tempo offense effectively, while minimizing penalties, will be crucial in determining the outcome of this highly anticipated playoff matchup.