Ohio State vs Oregon Prediction, Betting Odds, and Our Best Bet

One of the most anticipated matchups of the season — just behind the Alabama vs Georgia game — is set as No. 2 Ohio State heads to No. 3 Oregon in a game that will impact both the Big Ten standings and the race for a spot in the College Football Playoff.  It’s a big game, but you might be surprised by our Ohio State vs. Oregon prediction.

These two teams haven’t met too often, and the Ducks are fresh off a historic 2021 win that snapped their winless streak against Ohio State. The Buckeyes are favored by the odds, but we think that Oregon has a great opportunity to make another statement on home turf.

Ohio State vs Oregon Odds Breakdown

Heading into this massive game, Ohio State is favored, but not by too much of a margin. 

The Buckeyes defense has been nearly impenetrable, allowing just 6.8 points per game. Their offense leads the nation in point differential (+39.2) to boot. 

On the other side, Oregon has been just as impressive, boasting a +25.2 point differential since last season.

It’s worth noting that Oregon is on an 18-game win streak against Big Ten opponents who aren’t Washington, so despite the odds, this could be a closer game than you might think.

Why Oregon Will Shine in This Matchup

Ohio State’s dominance can’t be denied. However, Oregon has quietly been building a powerhouse that’s capable of competing with the best teams in the country. 

One major key will be whether quarterback Dillon Gabriel can bounce back from a shaky start to Big Ten play. Gabriel’s struggles are a concern — he’s thrown three interceptions in two conference games, with two coming in the red zone. That’s been his Achilles thus far.

However, with the Ducks finally regaining their rhythm on offense and ironing out early issues with the offensive line, there’s reason to believe Gabriel will elevate his game when it matters most.

The Ducks’ defense also deserves a bit of attention we don’t think they fairly get. Oregon’s defensive front has been stingy, forcing opponents into tough situations on third down, and keeping them out of rhythm. 

While Ohio State’s offense is explosive, the Ducks’ ability to disrupt the backfield and limit the running game could help keep things within reach.

Our Best Bet: Ducks to Win

Oregon has all the momentum on its side. Playing at home in front of a raucous Autzen Stadium crowd, the Ducks have an advantage that can’t be understated. Combine that with Ohio State’s last two trips to the West Coast, where the Buckeyes struggled against top-tier competition, and the door opens for Oregon to pull off yet another upset.

Expect Oregon’s balanced offense to find success against a Buckeye defense that, while strong, hasn’t faced an opponent with the Ducks’ versatility. 

Gabriel’s need for a breakout game could align perfectly here, and the Ducks’ defense should do just enough to hold the high-powered Ohio State offense at bay.

• HelloRookie Prediction: Oregon 31, Ohio State 27.

If you didn’t see that prediction coming, we don’t blame you. We think the Ducks will pull off the upset, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes alive and dealing Ohio State its first loss of the season.