Tennessee football faces Ohio State in the Vols’ first college football playoff game. How do the oddsmakers rate the Vols’ chances?

The Vols and Buckeyes are ready to face off today in Columbus in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Vols have been underdogs since their game against Ohio State was announced a few weeks ago. That line hasn’t moved much since then.

According to DraftKings, the Vols are currently 7.5 point underdogs over the Buckeyes. The national perception of this game was understandably in favor of Ohio State. The Buckeyes have presented one of the most balanced teams in the country this season, with a strong offense led by a group of dynamic wide receivers and a strong defense supported by safety Caleb Downs. Ohio State has consistently been one of the top-ranked teams in the country, and their experience in big game situations, particularly in the College Football Playoff, makes them a formidable opponent.

For Tennessee, the key to the upset will likely lie in their ability to dictate the tempo and capitalize on explosive plays. Running back Dylan Sampson, who had a breakout season, will have to be at his best to challenge Ohio State’s front seven. The Vols’ defense will also have to find a way to pressure Will Howard and disrupt the Buckeyes’ rhythm. If Tennessee can create turnovers and limit mistakes, they could have a chance to beat the favored Buckeyes on home soil.

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