• Ohio State avenged their regular-season loss to Oregon, winning 41-21 in the Rose Bowl.
• Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith had a stellar performance, catching two touchdown passes and totaling 187 yards.
• Quarterback Will Howard threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Buckeyes to a dominating first half.
• The Buckeyes' defense was formidable, holding Oregon to -26 rushing yards, a record low for the Ducks.
• Ohio State will face Texas in the Cotton Bowl on January 10 for a shot at the national title.

The Ohio State Buckeyes turned the tables on the Oregon Ducks in a stunning upset during the Rose Bowl, winning 41-21 and securing their spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals. After an earlier loss in October, the eighth-seeded Buckeyes (12-2) were determined to dominate, showcasing their skill and determination.

From the outset, Ohio State established control with a breathtaking opening drive. Freshman standout Jeremiah Smith caught a swift pass, evading defenders for a 45-yard touchdown, setting the tone for a first half characterized by overwhelming offensive prowess and a shut-down defensive effort. Quarterback Will Howard connected with Smith and Emeka Egbuka for multiple touchdowns, accumulating 319 passing yards and demonstrating his prowess on the field.

The Buckeyes' defense, known for its strength, restricted Oregon (13-1) to the fewest rushing yards they've seen in 16 years, with Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks' quarterback, being sacked eight times, a stark contrast to their first matchup.

Despite a valiant attempt, the Ducks could not recover from the 34-0 first-half deficit, marking their first loss of the season and ending their aspirations for a national title. As the Buckeyes prepare for a matchup against No. 5 seed Texas at the Cotton Bowl on January 10, they carry forward the momentum from this pivotal victory, demonstrating the potential to chase the ultimate championship.