Ohio State vs. Oregon: Picks, Predictions and Odds

The No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes head to Eugene for a top-three showdown against the No. 3 Oregon Ducks in Week 7 of the 2024 College Football season.

Both teams are undefeated at 5-0, but this matchup is each squad's first major test.

After a 35-7 home victory over Iowa following just a 7-0 halftime lead, the Buckeyes now face an Oregon team in hostile territory that's relied on an efficient offense and solid defense to remain unbeaten. The Ducks are coming off a 31-10 win over Michigan State.

Ohio State vs. Oregon betting picks and predictions

Ohio State -3.5 (-110)

Ohio State is favored by 3.5 points in this high-stakes battle, and there are several factors that make them the likely winners.

The Buckeyes possess one of the most dynamic offenses in the country, led by quarterback Will Howard, who has been efficient but, at times, conservative.

Despite holding back some of their offensive playbook, Ohio State has managed to dominate their opponents, especially in the second half, where they've outscored teams 84-3 in the third quarter. This speaks to the Buckeyes' ability to make in-game adjustments.

Oregon, meanwhile, has struggled to generate explosive plays, ranking 70th nationally in that category. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel has thrown three interceptions in the red zone in the past two games, and the Ducks' offense, while efficient, lacks the downfield explosiveness needed to keep pace with Ohio State.

The Buckeyes' defense, which ranks second in limiting explosive plays, will make it difficult for Gabriel and Oregon to find a rhythm.

The edge also lies in Ohio State's ability to disrupt Oregon's offensive line, which has been solid but still susceptible to pressure in the interior. The Buckeyes have one of the best pass-rushing units in the country, leading the nation in sack percentage.

Expect them to bring pressure up the middle, forcing Gabriel into difficult throws that he may lack the arm talent for.

Under 53.0 total points (-110)

While both teams boast potent offenses, the Under is a smart play here.

Ohio State's defense is elite, leading the country in both total and scoring defense. The Ducks' offense, on the other hand, has struggled to produce big plays, and the Buckeyes' ability to stifle opponents when they reach the red zone will further limit Oregon's scoring opportunities.

Additionally, both teams play at a slower pace than the national average. Ohio State ranks 86th in pace, averaging 27.6 seconds per play, while Chip Kelly's Oregon team has not been running at breakneck speed either.

This will keep the clock moving and limit the number of possessions, driving down the overall score. And with both defenses ranked among the best in the country, it's hard to see this game turning into a shootout.

Ohio State's ability to run the football, particularly with TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, will further shorten the game by grinding down the clock. Oregon's run defense has been solid but is vulnerable, especially after giving up 192 rushing yards to Boise State star Ashton Jeanty earlier this season.

In a game that will likely be determined in the trenches, the total of 53.0 points feels a bit too high, given the defensive capabilities and conservative offensive tendencies of both teams.

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Ohio State vs. Oregon odds

Ohio State	-160 ML
Oregon	+135 ML
Spread	Ohio State -3.5
Total Points	O/U 53

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.