The College Football Playoff’s initial round is nearing an end, with the last matchup showcasing Ohio State against Tennessee in “The Shoe.”

Tennessee and Ohio State, two powerhouses in collegiate football, have both secured at-large spots in the 12-team playoff after just missing out on their conference title games and top four byes in the bracket.

For Tennessee, this marks their inaugural playoff journey after closing the season with a 10-2 record, highlighted by a victory over Alabama that likely secured their playoff berth. Ohio State, familiar with playoff pressure, faces heightened expectations as their fan base grows discontent with head coach Ryan Day, particularly after a fourth straight defeat to Michigan. With aspirations of a national championship still alive, Day is under pressure to lead the Buckeyes deep into the playoffs to safeguard his position. Can Ohio State clinch a critical victory, or will Tennessee create an upset amid a crowd of over 100,000?

This is only the second encounter between Tennessee and Ohio State. The winner will move on to Pasadena for a challenging clash against the top seed, Oregon, in the famous Rose Bowl Game on January 1.

Halftime: Ohio State 21, Tennessee 10

It’s an exciting game in Columbus as Tennessee scored 10 points in the second quarter, bringing the halftime score to 21-10.

Ohio State dominated the first quarter, but a crucial interception by Tennessee stopped another potential scoring opportunity for the Buckeyes, allowing the Volunteers to force a punt. Tennessee’s quarterback Nico Iamaleava showcased his skills, driving the team down the field, scoring just before halftime. After gaining only 16 yards in the first quarter, Tennessee found their groove with 131 yards in the second.

Although they didn’t score in the second quarter, Ohio State had a solid performance overall, amassing 296 yards against a defense that typically allows only 278.3 yards per game. They attempted a long field goal just before halftime, but it was unsuccessful.

Tennessee will kick off the second half with the ball, aiming to narrow the gap.

Tennessee scores vital touchdown before halftime

The Volunteers make a significant comeback with a touchdown just before halftime, reducing the deficit to 21-10.

This was Tennessee’s strongest drive of the evening, methodically advancing 81 yards in 15 plays. A critical fourth-down conversion and several smaller gains in the red zone culminated in Iamaleava rushing 2 yards for a touchdown. He was heavily involved, running the ball six times on that drive.

Controversial call propels Tennessee to score

Ohio State nearly intercepted the ball back from Tennessee, but a flag benefited the Volunteers, enabling them to register their first points with a field goal.

During a crucial third down in Ohio State territory, Iamaleava’s pass intended for a receiver was intercepted by Davison Igbinosun, but a call for roughing the passer on Kenyatta Jackson Jr. saved Tennessee. The Ohio State sideline reacted negatively to the decision, and the ESPN commentators shared similar sentiments.

Despite not securing an additional first down after the penalty, kicker Max Gilbert successfully made a 36-yard field goal, putting Tennessee on the scoreboard.

Tennessee secures critical interception in the end zone

The Volunteers attained a major win with a dramatic interception in the end zone as Ohio State was pushing for another score.

Quarterback Will Howard’s target, Jeremiah Smith, almost completed the catch amidst tight coverage, but the ball slipped through his hands, allowing Tennessee’s Will Brooks to secure the interception with one foot in-bounds. The play was reviewed and upheld.

End of first quarter: Ohio State 21, Tennessee 0

Ohio State asserted their dominance in “The Horseshoe,” leading 21-0 after the first quarter.

A facemask penalty kept Ohio State’s opening drive alive, and the Buckeyes capitalized thoroughly thereafter. The Tennessee defense seemed unable to contend with the Buckeyes’ offensive strategy, and the Volunteers struggled offensively, not earning their first down until they were already trailing by three touchdowns.

Will Howard, the quarterback for Ohio State, displayed precision with 160 passing yards on 10 completions out of 12, including a touchdown. Running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson contributed a touchdown each. In contrast, Tennessee recorded only 16 total yards, and Iamaleava has not completed a pass so far.

Ohio State 21, Tennessee 0: Dominant Start for Buckeyes

Ohio State has made a stunning entrance at home, claiming a commanding 21-0 lead within the first quarter.

Once again, the Buckeyes advanced down the field smoothly with a seven-play, 58-yard drive, capped off by Henderson rushing 29 yards for a touchdown after breaking through the defensive line.

In merely 12 minutes, Ohio State amassed 191 total yards while Tennessee struggled with a deficit of -6 yards.

Ohio State keeps momentum with another touchdown

While a sea of orange fills Ohio Stadium,

The home team is effectively keeping the opposing team at bay, having secured a comfortable 14-0 lead within the first seven minutes of the match.

On their second play of the game, Ohio State managed to cover 68 yards in just five plays, leading to another touchdown. Will Howard made an excellent pass to Emeka Egbuka, achieving a 40-yard gain that brought them deep into the red zone. Shortly thereafter, Quinshon Judkins ran the ball in for a 1-yard touchdown.

Nico Iamaleava Helmet Damage

The intense hits in the chilly weather are becoming apparent.

After Tennessee’s opening drive ended with no points, the ESPN broadcast showed that quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s helmet had a crack, likely due to the hit he took during a 3-yard run.

According to ESPN’s Marty Smith, Iamaleava returned to the game wearing a new helmet on the following series for Tennessee.

Ohio State Capitalizes on Facemask Penalty

Tennessee was set to force a quick three-and-out, but Ohio State seized the opportunity and advanced to score a touchdown as the game began.

On the game’s third play, Bryson Eason of Tennessee sacked Will Howard, but accidentally caught Howard’s face mask while making the tackle. The referees called a penalty, allowing Ohio State to keep their offense on the field.

The Buckeyes took advantage of this break, swiftly moving down the field to score, with Howard connecting a stunning 37-yard pass to Jeremiah Smith in the end zone for the opening touchdown of the night.

When to Watch the College Football Playoff Game: Tennessee vs. Ohio State

The first-round College Football Playoff game featuring the No. 9 Tennessee Volunteers against the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes kicks off at 8 p.m. ET at Ohio Stadium, located in Columbus, Ohio.

Where to Watch the College Football Playoff Matchup

The highly anticipated first-round College Football Playoff game between the No. 9 Tennessee Volunteers and No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes will be broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN.

Fans can also stream the game live on Fubo, which provides a free trial.

Enjoy the Tennessee vs. Ohio State game with a Fubo subscription, which offers a free trial.

Current College Football Playoff Bracket:

CFP Quarterfinals Schedule

Following victories by No. 7 Notre Dame over No. 10 Indiana (27-17), No. 6 Penn State against No. 11 SMU (38-10), and No. 5 Texas defeating No. 12 Clemson (38-24), here’s a look at the current playoff picture and upcoming quarterfinal matchups.

All times listed are Eastern

TUESDAY, DEC. 31

• Fiesta Bowl: No. 3 Boise State vs. Penn State, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1

• Peach Bowl: No. 4 Arizona State vs. Texas, 1 p.m. (ESPN)
• Rose Bowl: No. 1 Oregon vs. Ohio State/Tennessee winner, 5 p.m. (ESPN)
• Sugar Bowl: No. 2 Georgia vs. Notre Dame, 8:45 p.m. (ESPN)

Tennessee vs. Ohio State Betting Odds

The Ohio State Buckeyes are favored to win against the Tennessee Volunteers in this College Football Playoff opener, according to BetMGM’s betting odds as of Saturday.

• Spread: Ohio State (-7)
• Moneyline: Ohio State (-275); Tennessee (+220)
• Over/Under: 46.5

Predictions for CFP First-Round: Ohio State vs. Tennessee

YSL News Sports: Ohio State over Tennessee

Paul Myerberg states: “This matchup is one of the highlights in the opening round and serves as a strong indicator of potential playoff scenarios between top-tier teams from the Big Ten and SEC. With two evenly matched teams that share several traits, two factors tilt the balance toward Ohio State: the advantage of playing at home and a more reliable offense. Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard has more experience and better options at his disposal. However, if Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava delivers another impressive performance, it could change the game dynamic entirely.”

ESPN Predicts 65% Chance for Ohio State Win

According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, the Ohio State Buckeyes have a 65.5% likelihood of defeating the Tennessee Volunteers in the opening round of the College Football Playoff.

College Football Network: Ohio State 27, Tennessee 23

Will Helms comments: “I believe Ohio State’s offense can effectively advance the ball through the air, but Tennessee’s defensive line might overpower a restructured Buckeyes offensive line. Still, I trust offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to create opportunities for elite talents like Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka. Should this game tighten up, the experience of Ohio State could be pivotal. Despite this, I view the Volunteers as a prime contender for the opening round. The depth and experience of the Buckeyes may carry them through, yet I foresee the Volunteers to keep it close.”

Sports Illustrated: Betting on Tennessee Volunteers

James Parks asserts: “Tennessee +7.5 … We’re backing the Volunteers to win straight-up in this match given their significant advantage from a robust defensive front, expected to dominate a Buckeyes offensive line that is missing two key starters due to injuries, with Dylan Sampson and Tennessee’s impressive running game solidifying their stance.”

Bowl Game Selections

Here are the expert predictions for all college football bowl games according to YSL News Sports.

College GameDay Coverage for College Football Playoffs

“College GameDay” is continuing to provide fans with coverage during the postseason. It aired on Friday, Dec. 20, ahead of the Indiana vs. Notre Dame match at 3:30 p.m. ET, featuring comedian Shane Gillis as a special guest picker.

Furthermore, the show returned to cover the day’s CFP games from Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. ET.

Historical Record: Tennessee vs. Ohio State

The Tennessee Volunteers have faced off against the Ohio State Buckeyes on a single occasion in their history, with the Volunteers emerging victorious.

The Buckeyes triumphed over their opponents with a score of 20-14 during the Citrus Bowl on January 1, 1996.

College Football Playoff Bracket: Upcoming Schedule

The College Football Playoff’s first round kicked off on Friday, December 19, and will wrap up with three games on December 20.

All times are in Eastern Time

FRIDAY, DEC. 20

• Game 1: No. 7 Notre Dame defeated No. 10 Indiana, 27-17

SATURDAY, DEC. 21

• Game 2: No. 6 Penn State defeated No. 11 SMU, 38-10, noon (TNT)
• Game 3: No. 5 Texas defeated No. 12 Clemson, 38-24
• Game 4: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 Tennessee, 8 p.m. (ABC/ESPN)

CFP Quarterfinals Schedule

Four quarterfinal matches will take place on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, featuring one match on December 31 and three on January 1. All games will be shown on ESPN.

All times are in Eastern Time

TUESDAY, DEC. 31

• Fiesta Bowl: No. 3 Boise State vs. Penn State, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1

• Peach Bowl: No. 4 Arizona State vs. Texas, 1 p.m. (ESPN)
• Rose Bowl: No. 1 Oregon vs. Ohio State/Tennessee winner, 5 p.m. (ESPN)
• Sugar Bowl: No. 2 Georgia vs. Notre Dame, 8:45 p.m. (ESPN)

CFP Semifinals Schedule

The semifinal rounds will be staged on January 9 and January 10 and will also be aired on ESPN.

All times are in Eastern Time

THURSDAY, JAN. 9

• Orange Bowl: Fiesta Bowl winner vs. Sugar Bowl winner, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

FRIDAY, JAN. 10

• Cotton Bowl: Peach Bowl winner vs. Rose Bowl winner, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

CFP National Championship Game Schedule

MONDAY, JAN. 20

• Game: Orange Bowl winner vs. Cotton Bowl winner
• Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
• TV: ESPN

Watch CFP games with Fubo

CFP Rankings

1. Oregon (Big Ten Champion, No. 1 seed)*
2. Georgia (SEC Champion, No. 2 seed)*
3. Texas (No. 5 seed)
4. Penn State (No. 6 seed)
5. Notre Dame (No. 7 seed)
6. Ohio State (No. 8 seed)
7. Tennessee (No. 9 seed)
8. Indiana (No. 10 seed)
9. Boise State (MWC Champion, No. 3 seed)*
10. SMU (No. 11 seed)
11. Alabama
12. Arizona State (Big 12 Champion, No. 4 seed)*
13. Miami
14. Mississippi
15. South Carolina
16. Clemson (ACC Champion, No. 12 seed)**

*first-round bye; **automatic bid

College Football Fix Podcast

The inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff is underway. Four first-round games will be hosted on campus, with one scheduled for Friday night and three on Saturday.

As history unfolds on the field, two Saturday games will coincide with NFL broadcasts, possibly affecting viewer ratings and prompting conversations about the future of the college football schedule. The situation is also complicated by significant player movements due to the transfer portal, influencing some playoff teams.

Dan Wolken and Paul Myerberg from YSL News Sports delve into these matters and more in this week’s College Football Fix episode.

Predictions for the 2024 College Football Season

Before the 2024 season kicked off, experts from YSL News Sports shared their predictions about which teams would reach the College Football Playoff.

• Scooby Axson: Ohio State
• Jordan Mendoza: Oregon
• Paul Myerberg: Georgia
• Erick Smith: Georgia
• Eddie Timanus: Ohio State
• Dan Wolken: Ohio State

Number of Teams in the College Football Playoff 2024

During the 2024-25 season, the College Football Playoff will feature 12 teams. The top five conference champions will secure automatic berths, with the top four enjoying a first-round bye. The remaining seven highest-ranked teams will fill the playoff bracket.

College Football Playoff Format Explained

The 12 teams in the College Football Playoff bracket consist of the five highest-ranked conference champions, as determined by the CFP selection committee, plus the next seven highest-ranked teams.

The four highest-ranked conference champions will be seeded from one to four and will receive first-round byes. The fifth conference champion will be seeded based on their rank or, in Clemson’s case this season, at No. 12 since they were outside the top 12 in the CFP rankings. Non-conference champions that rank in the top four will be seeded starting from No. 5.

As noted on the CFP website, “the seeding from 1 to 12 might differ from the final rankings.”

Complete Postseason Bowl Game Schedule

This college football postseason is set to be unprecedented. With the launch of the expanded playoff system, the season will stretch into the third week of January. In total, there will be 11 games determining the national champion, including some hosted on campus for the very first time alongside the six major bowl games. — Erick Smith

Reevaluating Bowl Seasons: Rethinking College Football’s Postseason

Now is an opportune moment to consider potential changes. In 2026, when existing agreements expire, the College Football Playoff is expected to expand to 14 teams, which will undoubtedly affect bowl games, currently numbering 35 that aren’t tied to the playoff.

The reality is that bowl season, despite its challenges, is closely connected to ESPN’s programming in December. ESPN runs 17 of these games and has broadcast contracts with nearly all the others. It’s unlikely to persuade college football’s key business partner to abandon bowl games that attract more viewers during the holidays than NBA, college basketball, or NHL regular-season games that could replace them. — Dan Wolken

Ranking the Bowl Games: Which Ones are the Best?

The bowl season is here, college football fans! Now that the matchups are set, it’s time for our yearly effort to evaluate the lineup of postseason games based on how enjoyable they are to watch. — Eddie Timanus