The Ohio State Buckeyes, after a successful postseason debut, are now set to face the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. The winner of this game will secure a spot in the semifinal at the Cotton Bowl Classic.
In their previous matchup in Eugene, Ohio State’s defense initially struggled, giving up 22 points in the first half to Dillon Gabriel and the Oregon offense. However, they were able to tighten up in the second half, allowing just 10 more points. Although Oregon won the regular-season meeting in a close contest, Ohio State is confident in their talent and believes they can sway the semifinal in their favor.
Here are three Ohio State defensive players who could play a pivotal role in this crucial game:
3. Cody Simon, Linebacker Cody Simon, the Buckeyes’ leading tackler this season, could be a game-changer in this Rose Bowl. He recorded 86 tackles, five sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery throughout the year. In their regular season game against Oregon, Simon tied his season high with 10 tackles. Against an offense that excels both in running the ball and passing, Simon’s sideline-to-sideline speed will be key to containing Gabriel and the Ducks’ versatile attack.
2. Caleb Downs, Safety Sophomore safety Caleb Downs has established himself as a force in Ohio State’s defense. A finalist for the Thorpe Award, Downs has been instrumental in controlling the field, especially alongside fellow safety Lathan Ransom. In their first encounter with Oregon, Downs registered eight tackles and two pass deflections. With Oregon’s high-powered offense, Downs’ tackling ability and coverage skills will be critical in preventing big plays and keeping the Ducks’ offense from breaking free.
1. Jack Sawyer, Defensive End Jack Sawyer, along with fellow defensive end JT Tuimoloao, will need to be more impactful than they were in the regular-season matchup against Oregon, where they combined for just five tackles and one tackle for loss. Sawyer has been a consistent playmaker for Ohio State, recording six sacks, 51 tackles, one interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and even a touchdown this season. Pressuring Dillon Gabriel and forcing turnovers will be crucial for Ohio State to disrupt Oregon’s offensive rhythm. Sawyer’s ability to create havoc in the backfield could be one of the Buckeyes’ best chances to win.
As Ohio State prepares for this pivotal game, fans are left wondering which team will come out on top in the Rose Bowl. Will the Buckeyes’ defense be able to neutralize Oregon’s potent offense and earn a shot at the Cotton Bowl Classic?