How ready is Ohio State for Rose Bowl revenge against Or…read more
Ohio State is gearing up for a rematch with Oregon in the Rose Bowl, seeking revenge for their narrow 32-31 loss earlier this season. The loss still haunts Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, who had one of his best performances, passing for 326 yards and two touchdowns. However, the game’s final moments left a bitter taste in his mouth. With Ohio State trailing by one point and just six seconds left, Howard scrambled after his intended receiver, Carnell Tate, was covered. Howard slid at the Oregon 26-yard line, but with just one second remaining, the Buckeyes were unable to call a timeout for a potential game-winning field goal. As a result, Oregon secured the win, and Howard vowed to his team that they would face the Ducks again.
Despite suffering another setback in a 13-10 loss to Michigan, Ohio State’s playoff hopes were revived with Oregon’s victory in the Big Ten Championship. Now, the Buckeyes are preparing for their chance at redemption in the Rose Bowl, where they are slightly favored. Howard is determined to seize this second chance, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity. “It’s a blessing,” he said, “and we just have to not let it pass us by.”
The sense of unfinished business extends beyond Howard. Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith also reflects on the loss, particularly a controversial penalty call that negated a potential game-winning play. Smith had caught a pass near the Oregon 21-yard line, but a push-off penalty was called, forcing the Buckeyes back. Smith still disagrees with the call, noting that the Oregon defensive back was holding him before the push. “It was a crazy call,” Smith said, adding that he thinks about it daily.
For many Ohio State players, the October loss to Oregon remains a painful reminder of missed opportunities. They lost the turnover battle, allowed eight plays of 25 yards or more, and saw cornerback Denzel Burke struggle in a tough game. Ohio State also failed to recover an onside kick that hit safety Caleb Downs in the chest. Despite these setbacks, Howard feels the team could have won. “We just didn’t play our best ball that day,” he admitted. Now, with the Rose Bowl ahead, Ohio State is focused on taking advantage of their second chance against Oregon.
