Ohio State’s College Football Playoff Schedule and Key Dates
The Ohio State Buckeyes have pulled off an impressive season, landing the No. 2 seed in the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP). Even after a tough loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship, their strong overall performance kept them in the hunt.
This year, the Buckeyes get to skip the first round. Fans are counting down to their Cotton Bowl appearance on Dec. 31. If you’re curious about the CFP schedule or what’s next for Ohio State, let’s break it down.
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Ohio State’s Path to the College Football Playoff
Last season, Ohio State played Tennessee at home in the CFP’s first round on Dec. 21. But things look a little different this time around.
With the No. 2 seed in the 2025 CFP, Ohio State gets to bypass the first round. That’s a pretty big deal, especially considering the stumble against Indiana. It really shows just how solid they’ve been all year.
Key Dates and Matchups
Ohio State fans won’t see their team on Dec. 19, but the CFP kicks off with Alabama vs. Oklahoma that day. Then on Dec. 20, Texas A&M takes on Miami at noon.
The winners from these games move on to the quarterfinals. That’s when things start to get really interesting.
- First Round: Dec. 19 and 20
- Quarterfinals: Dec. 31 and Jan. 1
- Semifinals: Jan. 8 and 9
- National Championship: Jan. 19
The Buckeyes’ Quarterfinal Showdown
Ohio State hits the field in the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 31. They’ll face whoever wins between Texas A&M and Miami.
This quarterfinal matchup is set for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff. There’s a lot riding on this one, and it could be a wild ride to the national championship.
What to Expect from the Quarterfinals
The quarterfinals should be packed with drama. Texas A&M brings a tough offense, while Miami’s defense has carried them far.
Whoever Ohio State ends up facing, they’ll need to be sharp. No room for mistakes if they want to keep moving forward.
Looking Ahead: Semifinals and National Championship
If Ohio State makes it past the quarterfinals, the semifinals are on Jan. 8 and 9. The pressure ramps up here, with the best of college football all gunning for a shot at the national championship on Jan. 19.
Buckeye fans are hoping this is the year the team goes all the way. Who knows? Anything can happen in the playoffs.
Ohio State’s Keys to Success
What does Ohio State need to do to win it all? Here are a few big factors:
- Strong Defense: The Buckeyes have to keep opposing offenses in check.
- Effective Offense: Scoring opportunities can’t be wasted, plain and simple.
- Team Cohesion: Communication and teamwork will matter more than ever.
- Coaching: Quick, smart decisions from the coaching staff could tip the scales.
Conclusion: Buckeyes’ Road to Glory
The Ohio State Buckeyes are staring down an exhilarating journey in the 2025 College Football Playoff. With a No. 2 seed and a straight shot to the quarterfinals, they’re set up for something big.
Fans are buzzing as the Cotton Bowl approaches on Dec. 31. You can feel the anticipation building everywhere you turn.
Want a deeper dive into the CFP schedule or Ohio State’s next steps? Check out the Dispatch’s coverage for the latest info.
