Ohio State Football vs. Oregon: Final game prediction

The Ohio State football team takes on Oregon tomorrow. It’s a game that both teams have had circled on their calendars for a long time. It will be a game that both teams want to win to further their chances to make the College Football Playoffs.

It will also mark the first time in 657 games that the Buckeyes will play a game at the Shoe with fans. It will be a great moment and game to witness in person. We have talked about the game all week. I gave a preliminary prediction early in the week. Now it’s time for the final prediction.

First off, expect the running game to be strong for the Buckeyes. Miyan Williams and TreVeyon Henderson are the two best backs on this team and they should see the lion’s share of the carries. I won’t rule out a carry or two by Master Teague though.

C.J. Stroud should play much better in the first half of this game than he did in Week 1. He won’t be as nervous and has played a full game now. Stroud only completed 61% of his passes against Minnesota. I would expect that efficiency to increase on Saturday.

Game Prediction: Ohio State 52 Oregon 21

You may notice my margin of victory is now higher than it was earlier in the week. That’s because as of this writing, it doesn’t look like Kayvon Thibodeaux is going to play. He is the best player that the Ducks have and he currently has a sprained ankle. I’d be surprised if he plays.

Because of his absence, I don’t think Oregon really has a shot to win this game. They’re not going to be able to get pressure on Stroud and make him uncomfortable. Ohio State should be able to move the ball pretty much at will.

This would be a good win to get on the resumé for the Buckeyes. Hopefully things go the way I just laid out.