Tennessee (10-2-0) at Ohio State (10-2-0)
- When: Dec 21 2024, 8:00 PM
- Where: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH
- Where to watch: ABC/ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Tennessee (#9) @ Ohio State (#8)
Moneyline
Tennessee (#9) +235
Ohio State (#8) -285
Tennessee (#9) @ Ohio State (#8)
Point Spread
Tennessee (#9) 7.5 (-115)
Ohio State (#8) -7.5 (-105)
Tennessee (#9) @ Ohio State (#8)
Total
Over 46.5 (-110)
Under 46.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
Tennessee: Nico Iamaleava 2510 Yds
Ohio State: Will Howard 2860 Yds
Team Stats
| Tennessee | Ohio State | |
| 10-2 | Record | 10-2 |
| 3-2 | Away & Home | 7-1 |
| 7-5-0 | ATS | 6-6-0 |
| 7-5-0 | O/U | 5-7-0 |
Game Preview
Ohio State enters this College Football Playoff first-round matchup as a 7.5-point favorite against Tennessee, with the total set at 46.5. After a stunning 13-10 loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes look to rebound at home in Columbus against a formidable Tennessee defense.
Game Overview
The stakes are high, with the winner advancing to face No. 1 seed Oregon in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. Ohio State’s unexpected collapse against Michigan has left lingering questions, especially about their offensive line, which managed only 77 rushing yards against Michigan’s defense. Tennessee, with its stout defense, could present a similar challenge.
Ohio State’s Path to Redemption
The Buckeyes, boasting a 10-2 record, are desperate to bounce back and avoid consecutive letdowns. Quarterback Will Howard, who has thrown for 3,284 yards and 28 touchdowns this season, stressed the importance of staying focused:
Ohio State’s offensive strategy will hinge on its elite receiving corps, led by Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate. Smith, the Big Ten Freshman and Receiver of the Year, has been a game-changer with 934 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. Expect the Buckeyes to rely on their passing attack to compensate for their struggling ground game.
Tennessee’s Defensive Prowess
Tennessee, also 10-2, boasts one of the nation’s top defenses, allowing just 99.6 rushing yards per game (8th nationally) and 13.9 points per game (4th). Defensive end James Pearce Jr., a future NFL first-round pick, leads the charge with 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
Head coach Josh Heupel emphasized controlling the line of scrimmage: “Stopping the run and forcing predictable third downs will be key to disrupting their rhythm.”
The Volunteers’ defense will need to stifle Howard and win critical one-on-one matchups in the secondary to neutralize Ohio State’s explosive receivers.
Key Factors to Watch
– Weather Impact: With temperatures projected to dip to 28°F, Tennessee’s ability to adapt to the cold will be tested. Coach Heupel brushed off concerns, saying: “Once the game starts, the weather won’t matter. It’s about execution between the white lines.”
– Turnover Battle: Ohio State’s offense will need to limit mistakes, especially with Tennessee’s defense excelling at forcing turnovers in critical moments.
– Momentum Swing: The Volunteers dominated Purdue 66-0 in their last outing, while Ohio State is reeling. Which team can seize early momentum?
Betting Prediction
– Spread: Ohio State -7.5
The Buckeyes’ talent and home-field advantage should allow them to control this game, especially if their passing attack finds its groove. Tennessee’s defense is elite, but the lack of offensive firepower to keep pace with Ohio State might be their downfall.
– Total: Under 46.5
With two strong defenses and a frigid atmosphere, this game could turn into a grind-it-out affair with limited scoring opportunities.
Prediction: The Buckeyes should cover the spread, leaning on their superior talent and a bounce-back performance from Howard. Tennessee’s defense will keep it competitive, but the Volunteers might not have enough firepower to pull off the upset.
CFP First Round Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Ohio State 24-16
Expert Pick: Ohio State -7½ (-105) & Under 46½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373
- CFP First Round Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
