Ohio State Buckeyes: College Football Playoff & Key 2025 Dates

The Ohio State Buckeyes are once again making headlines as they enter the College Football Playoff (CFP) with a shot at another national championship. Fresh off a dominant postseason run, the Buckeyes are now preparing for the biggest stage in college football. Here’s a detailed look at their playoff journey, key results, and what’s ahead in the 2025 season.

 

 

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Ohio State’s 2024-25 Playoff Run

 

First Round: Buckeyes Dominate Tennessee (Dec. 21, 2024)

 

Ohio State entered the first round as the No. 8 seed and put on a show against No. 9 Tennessee, securing a 42-17 victory. Their strong defensive performance and efficient offense set the tone for the rest of the playoff run.

 

Quarterfinals: Buckeyes Take Down Oregon (Jan. 1, 2025)

 

The Buckeyes advanced to the quarterfinals, where they faced No. 4 Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Ohio State controlled the game from start to finish, earning a 41-21 win. The victory secured their spot in the semifinals, marking another historic CFP appearance.

 

Semifinals: Victory Over Texas in the Cotton Bowl (Jan. 10, 2025)

 

In the CFP semifinal matchup at the Cotton Bowl, Ohio State faced No. 7 Texas. The Buckeyes delivered another strong performance, winning 28-14. This victory secured their spot in the 2025 National Championship Game, their first since the 2020 season.

 

National Championship: Buckeyes vs. TBD (Jan. 20, 2025)

 

Ohio State will now play in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 20, 2025. Their opponent has yet to be determined, but they are poised to compete for their first title since 2015.

 

 

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Key 2025 Ohio State Football Dates & Schedule

 

While the Buckeyes remain focused on the CFP, their 2025 football schedule has already been released, with several key matchups ahead.

 

Non-Conference Games

 

Aug. 30 – vs. Texas (Home opener)

 

Sept. 6 – vs. Grambling State

 

Sept. 13 – vs. Ohio

 

 

Big Ten Matchups

 

Sept. 27 – at Washington

 

Oct. 4 – vs. Minnesota

 

Oct. 11 – at Illinois

 

Oct. 18 – at Wisconsin

 

Nov. 1 – vs. Penn State

 

Nov. 8 – at Purdue

 

Nov. 15 – vs. UCLA

 

Nov. 22 – vs. Rutgers

 

Nov. 29 – at Michigan (The Game)

 

 

This schedule includes a highly anticipated rematch with Texas in the season opener and Big Ten battles against Penn State, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

 

 

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Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Ohio State?

 

Championship Aspirations

 

If Ohio State wins the national championship on Jan. 20, it will mark their ninth claimed national title and their second in the CFP era. Head coach Ryan Day has led the team through a challenging season, and a title win would further solidify Ohio State’s dominance in college football.

 

Key Departures & Returning Stars

 

As the Buckeyes transition to the 2025 season, they will likely see several top players declare for the NFL Draft. However, Ohio State consistently reloads with elite talent, and fans can expect another championship-contending team next season.

 

 

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Ohio State’s 2024-25 playoff run has been nothing short of spectacular, and the team now stands one game away from CFP glory. As they prepare for the National Championship on Jan. 20, Buckeye Nation eagerly awaits what could be another historic moment in Ohio State football history. Looking ahead to 2025, the Buckeyes will

remain a powerhouse in college football, facing a tough but exciting schedule.