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No. 9 Tennessee Volunteers at No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes
(Saturday, 8 PM EST on ABC/ESPN)
Ohio State’s weakened O-line must contain Tennessee’s top pass rush, or Tennessee will wreak havoc on Will Howard.
Can Ohio State’s offensive line hold up Against The Vols' Tough Defensive Line?
Ohio State’s offensive line has struggled significantly since the loss of star left tackle Josh Simmons and center Seth McLaughlin to season-ending injuries. Their pass-blocking grade ranks 128th in the FBS since Week 7, leaving QB Will Howard vulnerable in the pocket. Tennessee’s defense, led by James Pearce Jr., ranks 12th in pass-rushing grade and 11th in pressure rate, creating a massive challenge for the Buckeyes' depleted offensive line.
If Ohio State can find a way to protect Howard and allow him time to distribute the ball to their elite receiving corps, the Buckeyes could find success. But if Tennessee’s defensive front dominates, it could be a long night for the Buckeyes' offense.
Three Keys for Tennessee to Win
1. Dominate the Line of Scrimmage on Defense
Tennessee’s defensive front is one of the nation’s best, spearheaded by James Pearce Jr. The Volunteers need to exploit Ohio State’s weakened offensive line to generate consistent pressure on Will Howard. Forcing hurried throws or sacks will keep Ohio State’s passing attack out of rhythm.
2. Establish the Ground Game
Tennessee’s rushing attack, led by Dylan Sampson, needs to control the clock and keep Ohio State’s defense on the field. Sampson, who boasts a 90.7 PFF rushing grade, must find success against a Buckeyes defense that ranks fourth in run defense grade.
3. Limit Explosive Plays
Ohio State thrives on big plays, particularly through the air with receivers like Emeka Egbuka and freshman Jeremiah Smith. Tennessee’s secondary, led by Jermod McCoy, must stay disciplined and avoid giving up deep shots that can change the game’s momentum.
Key NFL Draft Prospect to Watch for Tennessee:
James Pearce Jr., EDGE
Pearce is a potential first-round pick with an elite 89.6 pass-rush grade and the top pressure rate among all FBS edge defenders. He has the ability to single-handedly disrupt Ohio State’s passing game.
Three Keys for Ohio State to Win
1. Protect Will Howard
The offensive line must find a way to slow down Tennessee’s pass rush. Utilizing quick passes, play action, and creative protection schemes will be essential to giving Howard the time he needs to find his elite wideouts.
2. Control the Defensive Line
Ohio State’s defense must stop Dylan Sampson and the Volunteers’ ground game. If the Buckeyes can dominate the trenches and force Tennessee into third-and-long situations, they can dictate the flow of the game.
3. Exploit Tennessee’s Secondary
With Tennessee focusing on pressuring the quarterback, Ohio State needs to lean on Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith to win their matchups. Howard must be precise and quick in his reads to capitalize on any openings in the Volunteers' secondary.
Key NFL Draft Prospect to Watch for Ohio State:
Emeka Egbuka, WR
Egbuka is a polished route runner and a top target for Will Howard. With elite hands and the ability to create separation, Egbuka could exploit Tennessee’s secondary and be the difference-maker for Ohio State.
Current Odds and Prediction
Ohio State: -7.5 to -8
Implied Game Total: 46-47 Points
The predicted final score is approximately 27-20 in favor of Ohio State, reflecting the 7.5-point spread and 46.5-point over/under. Ohio State’s top-ranked defense, allowing only 10.9 points per game, and their home-field advantage at Ohio Stadium underpin their favored status. Tennessee’s offense, while averaging 37.3 points per game, has struggled against elite defenses like Georgia and Alabama, managing just 20.5 points per game in those contests. The implied total suggests a game driven by strong defensive performances, with Tennessee’s pass rush expected to challenge Ohio State’s offensive line while Ohio State’s playmakers exploit key opportunities to secure a hard-fought victory.