#7-ranked Tennessee Volunteers ready to defeat #6-ranked Ohio in the College Football Playoff (CFP) first-round battle…

#7-ranked Tennessee Volunteers ready to defeat #6-ranked Ohio in the College Football Playoff (CFP) first-round battle…

The wait is finally over. **Game Week** has arrived, and the #7-ranked **Tennessee Volunteers** are gearing up for their **College Football Playoff (CFP) first-round battle** against the #6-ranked **Ohio State Buckeyes**. The Vols have made their long-awaited return to the postseason, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as they prepare for a high-octane clash with one of the most successful programs in recent history.

Tennessee, under head coach **Josh Heupel**, has re-emerged as a national powerhouse, earning a spot in the 2024 CFP after a remarkable season that featured signature wins and a potent offense led by quarterback **Joe Milton** and wide receiver **Squirrel White**. The Vols are excited to be in the postseason for the first time since the inception of the CFP system, and they have their eyes set on making a deep run for the national championship.

However, their journey will begin with a challenging first-round matchup in **Columbus, Ohio**, against an Ohio State team that’s as battle-tested as they come. The Buckeyes, under head coach **Ryan Day**, are perennial playoff contenders, and their explosive offense—led by quarterback **Kyle McCord** and future NFL standout **Marvin Harrison Jr.**—has kept opposing defenses on their toes all season.

### **Tennessee’s Game Plan:**

For the Vols, it all starts with their high-powered **up-tempo offense**. Known for pushing the tempo and putting pressure on opposing defenses, Tennessee’s offense is capable of scoring quickly and often. **Joe Milton**, who has been a lightning rod for both excitement and scrutiny this season, will be looking to showcase his cannon of an arm in what is arguably the biggest game of his career. Milton’s ability to make deep throws, especially to the dangerous **Squirrel White** and **Ramel Keyton**, will be pivotal for Tennessee to exploit Ohio State’s defense.

The Vols will also rely on their rushing attack, which has been more consistent as the season has progressed. **Jabari Small** and **Dylan Sampson** have been key contributors in the backfield, and Tennessee will need to establish a ground game to balance out the air attack. Against a stout Ohio State defense, getting some traction on the ground will keep the Buckeyes’ defensive line honest and open up play-action opportunities for Milton.

Defensively, the Vols will need to find a way to limit the big plays from Ohio State’s potent offense. The secondary, led by standout defensive back **Jaylen McCollough**, will have its hands full trying to contain Harrison Jr., who is one of the most dynamic receivers in the country. Tennessee’s defense has shown flashes of excellence this season, but they will need to play their most disciplined game of the year to keep Ohio State from running up the score.

### **Ohio State’s Game Plan:**

On the other side, Ohio State’s offense is built around **Kyle McCord**, who has taken full control of the quarterback position. McCord has been effective all season, but his ability to perform under the bright lights of the playoff will be closely watched. The Buckeyes’ bread and butter, however, is their **receiving corps**, especially **Marvin Harrison Jr.**, who has been a mismatch nightmare for defenders. Tennessee’s secondary will need to have their best game, with McCollough and **Wesley Walker** tasked with limiting the All-American receiver.

Ohio State’s offense is a well-oiled machine, but it’s not just the passing game that’s dangerous. **Miyan Williams** and **Travon Henderson** give the Buckeyes a potent running game that can gash defenses and keep the defense honest. Stopping the run will be critical for Tennessee’s defensive line, led by standout **Tyler Baron**, to prevent Ohio State from controlling the clock.

### **Keys to the Game:**

1. **Tempo and Execution:** Tennessee’s fast-paced offense has been one of the biggest weapons all season, and they will need to execute it flawlessly against Ohio State’s defense. If they can maintain their rhythm and avoid mistakes, they could put the Buckeyes on their heels early.

2. **Defensive Discipline:** The Vols’ defense needs to stay disciplined, especially in the secondary, where coverage breakdowns could lead to big plays. Limiting Harrison Jr. and McCord’s downfield success will be paramount to staying in the game.

3. **Special Teams Play:** In high-stakes games like these, special teams can often be the difference-maker. Tennessee will need reliable play from kicker **Charles Campbell** and punter **Riley Thompson**, while return man **Squirrel White** could provide a spark in the return game.

### **Fan Atmosphere:**

The game will be held at **Mercedes-Benz Stadium** in **Atlanta, Georgia**, and the venue promises to be packed with both Tennessee and Ohio State fans. The neutral site gives both teams a fair shot, but with Tennessee’s proximity to Georgia, expect a sizable contingent of Volunteer fans to be in attendance. The atmosphere will be electric, with two of college football’s most storied programs battling for a chance to play for the national title.

### **Conclusion:**

As game week officially arrives, the excitement surrounding the Tennessee vs. Ohio State matchup continues to build. Both teams bring explosive offenses, strong defenses, and a passion for the game that will make this first-round playoff matchup one of the most thrilling games of the season. With so much on the line, fans can expect an unforgettable game as the Vols look to continue their dream run and take down one of the most dominant programs in college football.