The Buckeyes fell to the Ducks on the road 32–31 in October. The two Big Ten powers will play their rematch at the Rose Bowl with a CFP semifinal berth on the line.

Ohio State came up just short against Oregon in their meeting earlier this season, as they suffered a 32-31 defeat after time ran out on their potential game-winning drive. A crucial offensive pass interference call against Smith derailed that last-gasp drive, and he's still fuming about it to this day.

Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith thought his battle with Tennessee defensive back Jermod McCoy in the opening round of the College Football Playoff