Ohio State wasted no time imposing its will at a frigid Ohio Stadium, storming to a 42-17 victory over Tennessee in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes roared ahead with three first-quarter touchdowns, 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 entered the night among the nation’s best.

Tennessee’s offense struggled, hampered by key injuries to running back Dylan Sampson and multiple receivers. Nico Iamaleava fought admirably, rushing for two touchdowns, but the Vols could not keep pace. 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 pushes its lead to 42-10 on TreVeyon Henderson’s second rushing touchdown, seemingly sealing a New Year’s showdown with Oregon. The Volunteers can’t find answers.

TREYZONE. 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 jumps ahead 28-10 on another Will Howard-to-Jeremiah Smith touchdown. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s offense is battered with key injuries at running back and wide receiver, making any comeback an uphill battle.

Tennessee’s opening drive of the half stalls after a failed option play on third-and-7. Ohio State regains possession at its own 35-yard line, still leading 21-10.

The Buckeyes opened strong, scoring touchdowns on their first three drives to build a 21-0 lead, with Will Howard showcasing pinpoint accuracy and Jeremiah Smith making big plays. Tennessee struggled early, with Nico Iamaleava facing heavy pressure and limited support from a banged-up offense.

Momentum shifted late in the second quarter. Tennessee’s defense forced Ohio State’s first punt, and Iamaleava led a gritty 16-play, 79-yard drive, capping 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 carries on the night as we approach halftime. Tennessee cuts the deficit to 21-10.

GIVE HIM SIX.

Nico punches it 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 show 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 comes up with an end-zone interception to stop Ohio State’s drive. The Vols are showing life.

BIG PLAY WILL. pic.twitter.com/fHM5bVintb

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) December 22, 2024

Ohio State’s defense forces another Tennessee three-and-out, keeping the Vols scoreless. The Buckeyes are capitalizing on Tennessee’s weaknesses and lead, 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 are rolling early in Columbus.