Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/21/2024 8:00 PM EST

We have your Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Tennessee Volunteers hit the road to face the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Tennessee Volunteers +230 (ESPN BET) / Ohio State Buckeyes -230 (DraftKings)
Best Spread Odds: -7.5 - Tennessee Volunteers -115 (FanDuel) / Ohio State Buckeyes -105 (FanDuel)
Best Total Odds: 47.0 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -107 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 12/21/2024
Time: 8:00 PM EST
Location: Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
TV: ABC

Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes Preview

The Tennessee Volunteers are set to face the Ohio State Buckeyes in a highly anticipated first-round matchup of the College Football Playoff. This game marks a significant milestone for Tennessee, as it is their first-ever playoff appearance, and they will be playing in Ohio for the first time in program history. The Volunteers, led by head coach Josh Heupel, have experienced a remarkable turnaround, boasting a 10-2 record this season. Their success has been largely attributed to the standout performances of running back Dylan Sampson, who leads the Southeastern Conference with 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. Tennessee's defense has also been formidable, ranking fourth nationally by allowing just 13.9 points per game.

On the other side, Ohio State enters the playoff with a 10-2 record, eager to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Michigan. The Buckeyes are known for their strong defensive unit, which will be crucial in containing Tennessee's fast-paced offensive attack. Ohio State's quarterback, Will Howard, brings experience and skill to the field, providing the Buckeyes with a credible offensive threat. The Buckeyes will also benefit from the home-field advantage at Ohio Stadium, where they have called for a "scarlet out" to energize the crowd and create an intimidating atmosphere for the visiting Volunteers.

Both teams have shown resilience and determination throughout the season, setting the stage for an exciting clash. Tennessee's ability to maintain their offensive tempo and Ohio State's defensive prowess will be key factors in determining the outcome. As the Volunteers look to make a statement in their playoff debut, the Buckeyes aim to leverage their experience and home advantage to secure a victory and advance to face Oregon in the quarterfinals. With both teams evenly matched, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter that could go down to the wire.

Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes Pick: Total Points Over

The upcoming clash between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Ohio State Buckeyes is poised to be a high-scoring affair, making the over on the total points an enticing pick. Both teams have demonstrated offensive capabilities that suggest a potential shootout. Tennessee, under the guidance of head coach Josh Heupel, has transformed into a formidable offensive unit, primarily driven by the exceptional performance of running back Dylan Sampson. Leading the Southeastern Conference with 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, Sampson is a dynamic force capable of breaking through defenses and putting points on the board. Additionally, Tennessee's fast-paced offensive tempo, averaging 24 seconds per play, ranks them among the top 25 in the nation, which could catch Ohio State off guard and lead to quick scoring drives.

On the other side, Ohio State's offense, led by experienced quarterback Will Howard, is well-equipped to exploit any defensive lapses by Tennessee. The Buckeyes have a history of bouncing back from setbacks, as evidenced by their near-upset of Georgia in the playoffs two years ago. With a home-field advantage at Ohio Stadium and a 'scarlet out' planned to energize the crowd, Ohio State is likely to come out firing on all cylinders. The Buckeyes' offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, is expected to employ a balanced attack, utilizing both the passing and running games to keep Tennessee's defense on its heels.

While both teams boast strong defenses, the offensive firepower on display and the stakes of a playoff game suggest that both sides will be aggressive in their scoring attempts. The Volunteers' ability to maintain their offensive tempo and the Buckeyes' determination to capitalize on their home advantage set the stage for a high-scoring encounter. With the total points line set at 47.0, the combination of Tennessee's explosive running game and Ohio State's balanced offensive attack makes the over a compelling choice for this playoff showdown.

Tennessee Volunteers at Ohio State Buckeyes Top Player Prop Picks

Will Howard Over 1.5 Passing TDs +106 (FanDuel)

Will Howard, Ohio State's quarterback, is poised to be a key player in the Buckeyes' offensive strategy against Tennessee. With the Buckeyes looking to bounce back from their recent loss to Michigan, Howard's experience and skill set will be crucial in navigating Tennessee's formidable defense. The Volunteers have allowed only 13.9 points per game, ranking fourth nationally, but Howard's ability to exploit defensive lapses could be pivotal. Ohio State's offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, is expected to employ a balanced attack, which will likely include leveraging Howard's passing capabilities to set up scoring opportunities. Given the stakes of this playoff game and the Buckeyes' home-field advantage, Howard is well-positioned to exceed the 1.5 passing touchdowns line.

Dylan Sampson Over 92.5 Rushing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Dylan Sampson has been a standout performer for Tennessee, leading the Southeastern Conference with 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. His ability to break through defenses has been a cornerstone of Tennessee's offensive success this season. Despite Ohio State's strong defensive unit, Sampson's dynamic rushing style and the Volunteers' fast-paced offensive tempo could catch the Buckeyes off guard. Tennessee's strategy will likely focus on maintaining their offensive tempo, which ranks among the top 25 in the nation, to create opportunities for Sampson to shine. With the Volunteers aiming to make a statement in their playoff debut, Sampson is expected to play a significant role in their offensive game plan, making the over on 92.5 rushing yards a compelling choice.

Jeremiah Smith Over 69.5 Receiving Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Jeremiah Smith is a key target in Ohio State's passing game, and his performance will be crucial in the Buckeyes' efforts to advance past Tennessee. With Will Howard at the helm, Smith's receiving capabilities will be instrumental in stretching Tennessee's defense and creating scoring opportunities. The Volunteers' defensive front is strong, but Ohio State's home-field advantage and the planned 'scarlet out' could provide the energy needed for Smith to excel. Given the importance of this playoff matchup and the Buckeyes' need to capitalize on their offensive strengths, Smith is likely to be a focal point in their game plan, making the over on 69.5 receiving yards a strong pick.