The Oregon Ducks, after winning the Big Ten Championship, have secured the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff rankings, granting them a first-round bye. With the official bracket released, Oregon’s path to the National Championship game is now clear, and their journey will lead them to the Rose Bowl, where they are slated to face the winner of the No. 8 vs. No. 9 matchup, which will be contested between Ohio State and Tennessee in a home game for the Buckeyes.
Oregon’s seeding has sparked plenty of discussion, with many noting their challenging path to the semifinals, which could see them face either Ohio State or Tennessee. Meanwhile, Penn State, who Oregon recently defeated in the Big Ten Championship, will have a home game against SMU in the first round, and if they win, they’ll face Boise State in the quarterfinals. The question of which team has the easier route to the semifinals is one that will likely continue to be debated.
For Oregon, the potential for a new chapter in a heated Big Ten rivalry looms. In October, Oregon hosted Ohio State in a thrilling game at Autzen Stadium, which was one of the season’s best and arguably the most significant game in the stadium’s history. Oregon narrowly defeated Ohio State 32-31, creating a rivalry that could intensify if the two teams meet again in the Rose Bowl. While Ohio State has faced criticism for struggling in big games, the challenge of beating the same team twice in one season remains a formidable one.
As Oregon prepares for their first-round bye, they will watch closely as Ohio State takes on Tennessee on December 14. If the Ducks and Buckeyes meet again, it would be a major opportunity for Oregon to solidify their claim as the best team in college football. Fans should stay tuned to see how the upcoming games unfold, especially as Oregon eyes a potential rematch with Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.
