In a stunner, the No. 1 Oregon Ducks suffered their worst defeat, 42-20, at the hands of Ohio State in the 2025 Rose Bowl. The Oregon Ducks were favorites in the College Football Playoff going into the game against Ohio State. However, this game was much different from any other. The Buckeyes controlled both sides of the ball while they played, and the Ducks looked to have trouble on their side.
The loss signaled the heartbreaking finale to what would have otherwise proven to be one of the strongest seasons for the Oregon Ducks, as they thrived under Dan Lanning for a season largely dominated by that Ducks team; championship aspirations simply weren’t fulfilled due to being ready and game- prepared, executing well through Ohio State.
From the get-go, Ohio State took hold of the game. Their defense was stifling Oregon’s mighty offense, shutting down star quarterback Bo Nix from getting in a rhythm, which had him to only 200 yards with one touchdown after passing for way more than he had all season long.
Oregon’s issues also trickled down to its defense. Buckeyes quarterback Kyle McCord tore the Ducks’ secondary apart, putting up over 350 yards of passing and four touchdowns. The dynamic receiving corps of Ohio State exposed holes in Oregon’s defense, turning such plays into pivotal moments in the game.
Despite their challenges, Oregon had its chances to turn the tide. However, missed tackles, penalties, and turnovers did not help the Ducks regain the game. Coach Lanning reflected on the game: “It wasn’t our day. We had our chances, but credit to Ohio State—they played an incredible game.”
It was a win by the Buckeyes, showing they had prepared and executed. Ryan Day, Ohio State’s head coach, made a point to be disciplined and focused leading up to the game, and that was evident on the field. Ohio State’s offensive line gave McCord time to make plays, and their defense made Oregon uncomfortable in every situation of the game.
Running back TreVeyon Henderson also proved instrumental, with more than 120 yards of rush and two touchdowns. Explosive plays from Henderson kept Oregon’s defense on its heels, which allowed Ohio State to maintain possession and set the tempo of the game.
Oregon lost the game but learned much in its quest to get better ahead of next season. As Oregon has one of the country’s most exciting offenses, their failure to adjust in a crucial way against Ohio State revealed vulnerabilities.
Oregon’s loss raises questions about the future of the program in the College Football Playoff landscape. The Ducks will have to rebuild and refocus with several key players likely leaving for the NFL. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s victory puts them firmly in the nation’s elite and positions them well for their championship bid.
In the end, the Rose Bowl proved the unpredictable nature of college football: a painful reminder for Oregon of how great teams can sometimes fall and a triumphant statement of intent for Ohio State, proving they are more than ready to take on the nation’s best.
