Buckeyes Rose Highlights

Buckeyes Rose Highlights

In its first trip to the Rose Bowl since 1997, the Buckeyes knew they were going to need to bring their best. Ohio State opened the game with a 10 play, 74 yard drive for a touchdown. Eight of the ten plays on the opening drive were passing plays, opening up opportunities for the run.

The defense matched the offense's opening effort holding the Ducks scoreless in the first quarter. Oregon's first two drives lasted three minutes in total and each resulted in a punt. On their third drive, Oregon finally scored on a Morgan Flint field goal toward the beginning of the 2nd Quarter.

After another Oregon score in the 2nd quarter to tie the game 10-10, OSU resonded with a 30 yard and 45 yard field goal from Barclay and Pettrey who shared placekicking duties during the game. The second field goal was setup by a key play by the defense, an interception by Ross Homan providing the offense with prime field position to strike again quickly before the end of the half. At halftime, the Bucks remained on top 16-10.

The 3rd quarter brought two additional lead changes with Oregon scoring on the first possession of the half to take their first lead of the game, 17-16. However, the lead wouldn't last long. Another Barclay field goal gave the Bucks the lead again on the following drive. A fourth quarter touchdown reception by Posey gave the Buckeyes a two possession lead that would remain for good, 26-17.
In the Buckeyes balanced attack, Pryor completed 23-of-37 passes for 266 yards and an interception for the Buckeyes (11-2), helping the Buckeyes secure their first BCS bowl game since the 2005 Fiesta Bowl 34-20 victory over Notre Dame. Pryor also rushed for 72 yards on 20 carries, many of which came on important 3rd down conversions.

Posey brought in eight passes for 101 yards, including one touch down. Brandon Saine caught two passes for 59 yards and a TD and added 45 yards rushing on 14 carries.