- What: CFP Quarterfinal Game
- When: January 1, 2025
- Who: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Oregon Ducks
- Time: 2:00 p.m. PST
- Where: Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA)
As we gear up for the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the No. 1 Oregon Ducks and No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes.
This isn’t just another game; it’s a rematch of a nail-biter from earlier this season where Oregon edged out Ohio State 32-31.
With the Ducks coming off a well-deserved bye and the Buckeyes riding high after a dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee, the anticipation is palpable. But when it comes to making a smart bet, I’m leaning towards Oregon on the moneyline.
Ohio State
Ryan Day has been scrutinized after a disappointing loss to Michigan. While he bounced back against Tennessee, his game plans have been inconsistent.
In high-stakes situations, having the better coach can make all the difference, and right now, Lanning has the edge.
Now, let’s dive into the quarterback battle. Will Howard, while talented, has shown vulnerabilities, especially against a Ducks defense that has improved since their last meeting.
Happy New Year on the floor of the Rose Bowl… ???? pic.twitter.com/TdhI2OkAp3
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) January 1, 2025
Gabriel’s ability to stretch the field and connect with his receivers will be crucial in this matchup.
While Ohio State’s recent performance against Tennessee was impressive, it’s essential to consider the context. The Volunteers struggled defensively, and the Buckeyes capitalized on that.
Oregon presents a different challenge altogether. With a balanced attack and a defense that has tightened up since their last encounter, the Ducks are well-equipped to handle whatever Ohio State throws at them.
Oregon
Let’s discuss the coaching matchup. Dan Lanning has proven himself to be a master strategist this season, leading Oregon to a perfect 13-0 record and a Big Ten Championship in their inaugural year in the conference. His ability to adapt and make in-game adjustments has been a game-changer.
Dillon Gabriel has been nothing short of spectacular this season. With over 3,500 passing yards and 30 touchdowns, he’s not just a game manager; he’s a playmaker who can change the course of a game in an instant. His experience and poise in critical moments give Oregon a significant advantage.
Seize the moment ????#GoDucks x @rosebowlgame pic.twitter.com/jQomLbr8gM
— Oregon Football (@oregonfootball) January 1, 2025
Statistically, Oregon has been efficient on offense, ranking in the top 20 nationally in scoring. They’ve shown they can move the ball effectively, even against tough defenses.
In contrast, Ohio State’s defense, while formidable, has had its moments of vulnerability, particularly against explosive offenses.
The Ducks’ offensive line is one of the best in the country, allowing Gabriel to operate comfortably in the pocket and giving running back Jordan James the lanes he needs to exploit Ohio State’s defensive weaknesses.
Moreover, the Ducks have a knack for winning close games. Their ability to perform under pressure was evident in their earlier victory over Ohio State, where they managed to hold off a late-game surge.
This experience in high-pressure situations is invaluable in the playoffs, where every possession counts. The Ducks have proven they can execute when it matters most, and that’s a trait I’m banking on in this rematch.
Buckeyes-Ducks Best Bet
In terms of betting odds, getting Oregon on the moneyline at +115 is a steal. The Ducks have shown they can beat the Buckeyes, and with the added motivation of avenging their regular-season loss, I expect them to come out firing.
The combination of Lanning’s coaching, Gabriel’s leadership, and Oregon’s overall team chemistry makes them a compelling pick.
While the total points might be tempting, the real value lies in backing the Ducks to win outright. With the momentum on their side and a roster full of playmakers, Oregon is primed to make a statement in the Rose Bowl.
So, let’s ride with the Ducks and cash in on that moneyline play!
Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
