Ohio State DESTROYS Oregon in the Rose Bowl | Buckeyes Advance to Face Texas in CFP Semifinals
In a thrilling and dominant performance, Ohio State crushed Oregon 42-14 in the 2025 Rose Bowl, securing a decisive victory that sent the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinals.
The win not only gave Ohio State the coveted New Year’s Day victory but also propelled them into a high-stakes showdown with Texas, a team that has shown impressive form all season.
From the moment the game kicked off, Ohio State set the tone with a relentless offense and a stifling defense that left Oregon scrambling.
Quarterback Kyle McCord led the Buckeyes with precision and poise, completing 24 of 32 passes for 307 yards and three touchdowns.
McCord’s performance was the highlight of a balanced offensive attack that saw both the passing and running games click on all cylinders. The Buckeyes totaled 200 rushing yards, with running back Miyan Williams rushing for 118 yards and a touchdown on just 16 carries.
Ohio State’s offensive line dominated the trenches, creating massive holes for the running game and providing McCord with ample time in the pocket. Oregon, which had been known for its fast-paced offense throughout the season, simply couldn’t keep up with the Buckeyes’ tempo and physicality.
The Ducks’ defense, which had been a strong unit in the Pac-12, appeared overwhelmed as Ohio State consistently moved the ball at will.
The game was essentially decided in the first half, as Ohio State raced out to a commanding 28-7 lead. McCord opened the scoring with a 34-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who continued to show why he’s one of the top prospects for the NFL draft.
Harrison finished the game with seven catches for 115 yards and two touchdowns, making several acrobatic grabs that left Oregon’s defense grasping at air.
Oregon’s offense, led by quarterback Bo Nix, struggled to find any rhythm against Ohio State’s formidable defense. The Ducks were stifled by the relentless pass rush and physical secondary play, with Nix being sacked four times and intercepted twice.
The Buckeyes’ defense, led by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, seemed to be everywhere, snuffing out any attempt by Oregon to claw their way back into the game.
Oregon’s lone touchdown came in the second quarter, a 45-yard pass from Nix to wide receiver Troy Franklin, but that was the extent of their scoring for the day.
The Buckeyes answered with two more touchdowns before halftime, one from Williams on the ground and another through the air from McCord to tight end Cade Stover, effectively sealing the game before the break.
The second half was a formality, with Ohio State continuing to control the clock and the game. Oregon had no answer for the Buckeyes’ defense, and McCord added a third touchdown pass to ice the victory. By the time the final whistle blew, it was clear: Ohio State had made a statement.
The 42-14 victory over Oregon not only gives the Buckeyes a spot in the CFP Semifinals but also establishes them as one of the most dangerous teams in the country.
As they prepare for their matchup with Texas, Ohio State will have the confidence and momentum of a team that looks poised to make a run at the national title.
