Ohio State no. 8 dominates no. 9 in Tennessee, earn a Rose Bowl appearance

Ohio State wasted no time imposing its will on a frigid Ohio Stadium, storming to a 42-17 victory over Tennessee in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes roared ahead with three touchdowns in the first quarter, sparked by quarterback Will Howard’s efficient passing and freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith’s grab for highlights. TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins combined for four rushing scores, showcasing Ohio State’s balanced offense against a Volunteers defense that entered the night among the nation’s best.

Tennessee’s offense struggled, hampered by key injuries to running back Dylan Sampson and several receivers. Nico Iamaleava struggled admirably and rushed for two touchdowns, but the Vols couldn’t keep up. With the win, Ohio State advances to face top-ranked Oregon on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Rose Bowl rematch and keeping the Buckeyes’ title hopes alive.

Ohio State pushes its lead to 42-10 on TreVeyon Henderson’s second rushing touchdown, seemingly sealing a New Year’s Eve showdown with Oregon. The volunteers cannot find answers.

TREY ZONE. 24 yard TD run for @TreVeyonH4

That’s two for the young man. #CFBPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/sH8yJ2kVkv

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) 22 December 2024

Ohio State jumps ahead 28-10 on another Will Howard-to-Jeremiah Smith touchdown. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s offense is plagued by key injuries at running back and wide receiver, making any comeback an uphill battle.

Tennessee’s opening drive of the half stalls on a failed pick play on third-and-7. Ohio State regains possession at its own 35-yard line and still leads 21-10.

The Buckeyes opened strong, scoring touchdowns on their first three drives to build a 21-0 lead, with Will Howard showing precision and Jeremiah Smith making big plays. Tennessee struggled early, with Nico Iamaleava facing heavy pressure and limited support from a beaten offense.

Momentum shifted late in the second quarter. Tennessee’s defense forced Ohio State’s first punt, and Iamaleava led a tough 16-play, 79-yard drive, capping it off with a two-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 11. The Vols get the ball after halftime.

Vols QB Nico Iamaleava caps a 16-play, 79-yard drive with a touchdown run. He has 13 carries a night as we approach the break. Tennessee cuts the deficit to 21-10.

GIVE HIM SIX.

Nico hits it in pic.twitter.com/JFdTUE4Ixu

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) 22 December 2024

Tennessee converts a 36-yard field goal after a 62-yard drive. It’s 21-3, Ohio State, but the Vols are showing their first signs of life.

3 points on the board. pic.twitter.com/uVZ3J4YNRX

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) 22 December 2024

After official review, Tennessee’s defense comes up with an interception in the end zone to stop Ohio State’s drive. The Vols show life.

GREAT WILL TO PLAY. pic.twitter.com/fHM5bVintb

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) 22 December 2024

Ohio State’s defense forces another Tennessee three-and-out, keeping the Vols scoreless. The Buckeyes take advantage of Tennessee’s weaknesses and lead, 14-0.

Ohio State extends its lead to 14-0 after a 40-yard pass from Will Howard set up Quinshon Judkins’ short touchdown run. The Buckeyes roll early in Columbus.