Who is Ohio State’s x-factor for their matchup with Tennessee in the CFP first round, and it’s not Jeremiah Smith?

As Ohio State prepares for its College Football Playoff (CFP) first-round matchup against Tennessee, the team’s “X-factor” might not be the obvious standout, Jeremiah Smith, the wide receiver sensation. While Smith is undoubtedly one of the top players in college football, there’s another player whose performance could be the key to the Buckeyes advancing to the next round: **Miyan Williams**, Ohio State’s talented running back.

### Why Miyan Williams Is the X-Factor

In a high-stakes playoff game like the CFP, balance on offense is crucial. While Ohio State is often known for its explosive passing game, led by quarterback Kyle McCord and wide receivers like Smith, it’s Williams’ ability to control the ground game that could make all the difference against a dynamic team like Tennessee.

#### 1. **Control the Clock**
One of the best ways to neutralize a high-powered offense like Tennessee’s is by controlling the clock. The Vols are explosive, particularly through the air with quarterback Joe Milton and his deep-threat receivers. If Ohio State can dominate the time of possession, they’ll limit Tennessee’s opportunities and wear down the Vols’ defense. Williams is the key to achieving this. A consistent running game will keep the chains moving and keep Milton and his offensive weapons off the field.

#### 2. **Physicality in the Trenches**
Tennessee’s defense has shown vulnerability against physical running games, especially when teams can impose their will at the line of scrimmage. Williams is a hard-nosed back, capable of picking up tough yards between the tackles, breaking tackles, and keeping the defense on its heels. He has the vision to find gaps and the power to move the pile, which could wear down a defense that relies on speed and quickness rather than brute strength.

In a game where the Buckeyes will likely face heavy pressure from Tennessee’s pass rush, establishing the run early allows Ohio State to balance the offense, making it less predictable and giving McCord more time in the pocket.

#### 3. **Complementing the Passing Game**
The emergence of a reliable running back like Williams gives McCord the freedom to use play-action more effectively. When defenses respect the run, they are forced to bring more players into the box, opening up opportunities for the passing game. This is crucial for Ohio State’s offensive identity, as McCord has the ability to connect on deep passes to a talented receiving corps, including Smith, Marvin Harrison Jr., and others. A well-executed run game will keep Tennessee’s secondary from playing too aggressively and help create better matchups in the passing game.

#### 4. **Red Zone Efficiency**
Another area where Williams could shine is in the red zone. The Buckeyes will need to finish drives, especially against a team like Tennessee that can score quickly. Williams, with his combination of power and vision, can be a reliable weapon near the goal line. If Ohio State can lean on their running game in short-yardage situations, it can avoid the pressure of having to settle for field goals in the red zone, maximizing their scoring opportunities.

#### 5. **The Wild Card Factor**
Unlike a player like Jeremiah Smith, who is expected to shine, Williams brings an element of unpredictability to Ohio State’s offense. Teams know what they’re going to get from a player like Smith: elite route-running, contested catches, and explosive plays. Williams, on the other hand, has the potential to surprise. A big game from Williams could catch Tennessee off guard, throwing off their defensive game plan and allowing Ohio State to dictate the pace of the game.

### Conclusion
While much of the attention leading up to the game will focus on Ohio State’s passing attack and star wide receivers like Jeremiah Smith, it’s Miyan Williams who might just be the key to unlocking the Buckeyes’ success in the CFP. His ability to control the ground game, maintain possession, and complement the passing attack could be the deciding factor in Ohio State’s first-round performance against Tennessee. If Williams has a big game, it not only improves Ohio State’s offensive balance but also keeps Tennessee’s offense from finding any rhythm, which is essential for securing a win in the high-pressure environment of the CFP.