The Ohio State Buckeyes started 2025 with a bang, securing a thrilling 41-21 victory over the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl last night.
Buckeye fans packed the stadium and millions more cheered from home as their team lit up the field in Pasadena. From the opening drive to the final whistle, Ohio State showed why they’re a force to be reckoned with this season.
Quarterback Will Howard led the charge, throwing for 319 yards and three touchdowns in a near-flawless performance.
His connection with standout freshman Jeremiah Smith was electric. Smith had a remarkable bowl debut, hauling in seven receptions for 187 yards and two touchdowns.
On the ground, TreVeyon Henderson reminded everyone why he’s one of the nation’s best, breaking free for a jaw-dropping 66-yard touchdown.
The Buckeyes came out strong, scoring on six of their first seven drives and building a commanding 34-0 lead late in the second quarter.
Oregon wasn’t about to go quietly, though. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel led a scoring drive in the final moments before halftime, connecting with Traeshon Holden for a touchdown to make it 34-8 at the break. While the Ducks showed flashes of life in the second half, Ohio State’s defense kept them in check, and the Buckeyes added another touchdown to seal the deal.
A key factor in the Buckeyes’ dominance was their defense. The unit recorded eight sacks, disrupting Oregon’s offense and ensuring the Ducks couldn’t build momentum. Tommy Eichenberg and Sonny Styles were relentless, making crucial plays to stifle Oregon’s attempts to stage a comeback.
This victory marks Ohio State’s 10th Rose Bowl win.
It also propels them into the College Football Playoff semifinals, where they’ll face No. 4 Texas in the Cotton Bowl on January 10th. The Buckeyes’ performance was a masterclass in teamwork, resilience, and sheer determination—setting the stage for an exciting playoff run.
For Buckeye Nation, the win was the perfect start to the new year. The energy, the passion, and the sheer joy of watching their team dominate on such a storied stage was unforgettable.
As the team hoisted the Rose Bowl trophy under the California sky, one thing was clear: the Buckeyes are ready to bring home a championship.
Featured image via Rose Bowl Stadium (Facebook)
