Ohio State wasted no time in imposing its will in frigid Ohio Stadium, storming to a 42-17 victory over Tennessee in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes stormed ahead with three touchdowns in the first quarter, sparked by quarterback Will Howard’s efficient passing and freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith’s highlight-reel grabs. TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins combined for four rushing scores, showcasing Ohio State’s balanced attack against a Volunteers defense that was among the best in the country entering the night.

Tennessee’s offense struggled and was hampered by serious injuries to running back Dylan Sampson and several receivers. Nico Iamaleava fought admirably and rushed for two touchdowns, but the Vols couldn’t keep up. With the win, Ohio State advances to face top-ranked Oregon on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Rose Bowl rematch and keeping the Buckeyes’ title hopes alive.

Ohio State extends its lead to 42-10 on TreVeyon Henderson’s second rushing touchdown, seemingly sealing its New Year’s Eve showdown with Oregon. The volunteers can’t find answers.

TREY ZONE. 24-yard TD run for @TreVeyonH4

That’s two for the young man. #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/sH8yJ2kVkv

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) December 22, 2024

Ohio State takes a 28-10 lead with another touchdown between Will Howard and Jeremiah Smith. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s offense has been plagued by serious injuries at running back and wide receiver, making any comeback an uphill battle.

Tennessee’s first drive of the half failed after a failed option play on third-and-7. Ohio State regains the ball at its own 35-yard line and still leads 21-10.

The Buckeyes opened strong, scoring touchdowns on their first three drives to build a 21-0 lead with Will Howard showing off his precision and Jeremiah Smith making big plays. Tennessee struggled early, with Nico Iamaleava under heavy pressure and receiving limited support from a struggling offense.

Towards the end of the second quarter, the dynamics changed. Tennessee’s defense forced Ohio State’s first punt, and Iamaleava led a tenacious, 16-play, 79-yard drive and capped it with a two-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 11. The Vols get the ball after halftime.

Vols QB Nico Iamaleava caps a 16-play, 79-yard drive with a touchdown run. He has 13 appearances this evening, just before halftime. Tennessee cut the deficit to 21-10.

Give him six.

Nico chimes in 👊 pic.twitter.com/JFdTUE4Ixu

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) December 22, 2024

Tennessee converts a 36-yard field goal after a 62-yard drive. It’s 21-3 Ohio State, but the Vols are showing their first signs of life.

3 points on the board. pic.twitter.com/uVZ3J4YNRX

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) December 22, 2024

After official review, Tennessee’s defense throws an end zone interception to stop Ohio State’s drive. The Vols are showing life.

GREAT WILL TO PLAY. pic.twitter.com/fHM5bVintb

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) December 22, 2024

Ohio State’s defense forces another three-pointer for Tennessee and holds the Vols scoreless. The Buckeyes took advantage of Tennessee’s weaknesses and led 14-0.

Ohio State extends its lead to 14-0 after a 40-yard pass from Will Howard set up Quinshon Judkins’ short touchdown run. The Buckeyes roll early in Columbus.