The upcoming Rose Bowl on January 1, 2025, features a highly anticipated rematch between the No. 1 Oregon Ducks (13-0) and the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2). The Ducks secured a narrow 32-31 victory over the Buckeyes earlier this season, adding intrigue to this College Football Playoff quarterfinal.

 

**Offensive Matchup**

 

Oregon’s offense is spearheaded by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who has amassed 3,558 passing yards with 28 touchdowns and six interceptions, complemented by 192 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Running back Jordan James contributes significantly with 1,253 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. The Ducks’ balanced attack averages 35.9 points per game, ranking 15th nationally.

 

Ohio State counters with quarterback Will Howard, boasting 3,171 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, alongside 174 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has been a standout, recording 63 receptions for 1,037 yards and 12 touchdowns, breaking a 40-year-old freshman record. The Buckeyes average 36 points per game, placing them 14th nationally.

 

**Defensive Matchup**

 

Defensively, Ohio State has been formidable, allowing just 11.4 points per game, the best in the nation. Their pass rush, led by defensive linemen J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, has been effective, combining for 14 sacks.

 

Oregon’s defense permits 17.8 points per game, ranking 13th nationally. Linebacker Bryce Boettcher leads the team with 76 tackles, while defensive lineman Matayo Uiagalelei has been disruptive upfront with 10.5 sacks.

 

**Recent Performance and Intangibles**

 

Ohio State enters the Rose Bowl with momentum, following a dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee in the first round of the playoffs. This performance has led some analysts to favor the Buckeyes in the rematch against Oregon.

 

However, Oregon’s undefeated season and previous win over Ohio State cannot be overlooked. Dillon Gabriel’s experience and leadership are considered significant advantages for the Ducks.

 

**Prediction**

 

While Ohio State is favored by 2.5 points, the game is expected to be closely contested. Analyst Greg McElroy predicts a narrow victory for Ohio State, while other experts highlight Oregon’s recent success against the Buckeyes and Gabriel’s poise as potential deciding factors.

 

In conclusion, the Rose Bowl presents a matchup of two elite teams with potent offenses and stout defenses. Ohio State’s recent form and slight favoritism suggest they may have a marginal edge, but Oregon’s undefeated record and previous victory indicate that the Ducks are well-positioned to challenge the Buckeyes once again.