Ohio State is set to host its first-ever home College Football Playoff game, and the Buckeyes are entering this matchup against Tennessee as favorites. Coming off a solid 10-2 season, Ohio State is favored by about a touchdown over the equally impressive 10-2 Volunteers. But is it too soon to count Tennessee out?
Can Tennessee pull off the upset?
Tennessee has displayed remarkable talent this season, and their roster is packed with players who could potentially turn the tide against Ohio State. As the Vols prepare for this critical playoff battle, let’s take a closer look at five key players who could lead Tennessee to victory.
5. James Pearce Jr., DE
One of the most formidable players on Tennessee’s defense is James Pearce Jr., an edge-rushing dynamo who has the ability to disrupt any backfield. Standing tall at 6-foot-5 and weighing 243 pounds, Pearce combines size with speed, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. He was named to the All-SEC first team this season, recording 35 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks.
Ohio State’s offensive line has been impressive, allowing just 12 sacks throughout the entire season, which ties for the best in the Big Ten. If Pearce can create pressure and make Buckeyes QB Will Howard uncomfortable, Tennessee’s chances of pulling off an upset will significantly increase.
4. Cooper Mays, C
Another crucial player to watch is Cooper Mays, Tennessee’s center and an All-SEC selection in 2023. Mays has the important task of protecting quarterback Nico Iamaleava from Ohio State’s aggressive defense. Fun fact: when Ohio State’s defense records one or more sacks, they boast a perfect 10-0 record. However, when they fail to sack the quarterback, their record drops to 0-2. This statistic highlights the importance of Mays’ role in keeping Iamaleava upright and allowing him to execute Tennessee’s offensive game plan effectively.
3. Nico Iamaleava, QB
At the helm of Tennessee’s offense is redshirt freshman Nico Iamaleava, who has been entrusted with leading one of college football’s most dynamic offenses. Despite experiencing some ups and downs, Iamaleava has generally performed admirably, throwing for 2,512 yards, 19 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, while also adding 311 rushing yards.
Tennessee’s success hinges on Iamaleava’s performance; the Vols are 9-0 when he throws at least one touchdown and just 1-2 when he does not. Ohio State will undoubtedly focus on limiting Iamaleava’s effectiveness, but if he can find success, the Vols will be in a strong position to challenge the Buckeyes.
2. Jermod McCoy, DB
On the defensive side of the ball, Jermod McCoy has emerged as a key player for Tennessee. A second-team All-SEC selection, McCoy has recorded 39 tackles and broken up 13 passes, including four interceptions. His contributions have been vital in helping Tennessee improve its defensive performance, allowing just 13.9 points per game this season, down from 20.3 last year.
Ohio State’s high-octane offense has struggled against elite defenses, and McCoy’s ability to contain their big-play potential will be crucial. If he can keep the Buckeyes’ explosive plays to a minimum, Tennessee’s chances of an upset will rise significantly.
1. Dylan Sampson, RB
Last but certainly not least is Dylan Sampson, who may be one of the most underrated players in college football. Sampson had a phenomenal season, leading the SEC in rushing with an impressive 1,485 yards and setting an all-time league record with 22 rushing touchdowns. Remarkably, he has only failed to reach 100 rushing yards in two games this season, one of which was a 56-0 blowout against UTEP where he had limited carries.
Sampson has scored a touchdown in every game except for the regular-season finale against Vanderbilt, where he still rushed for 178 yards. History shows that when Ohio State’s opponents rush for 126 or more yards, they have a perfect 2-0 record against the Buckeyes. With Sampson leading the charge, Tennessee has a solid chance to reach that threshold and potentially secure an upset victory.
What are Tennessee’s chances?
As the Volunteers gear up for this monumental playoff clash, the excitement is palpable. With a roster filled with talent and key players poised to make an impact, Tennessee has the potential to challenge Ohio State. The question remains: can they capitalize on their strengths and exploit the Buckeyes’ weaknesses?
What do you think of Tennessee’s chances of upsetting Ohio State? Share your thoughts below in our comments section!
