While there are many similarities and differences between Oregon and Ohio State, the only team who knows what it’s like to face the physicality and athleticism of the both the Ducks and Buckeyes this season, is the Michigan State Spartans.
The Spartans finished the season 11-2 overall, with their only two losses coming on Sept. 6 in Eugene against the Ducks and on Nov. 8 when they hosted the Buckeyes.
Here’s a quick recap of how each team fared against the Spartans and what to expect in the big game.
Oregon 46 – Michigan State 27
Offense: The Spartans entered the game with one of the best defenses in the nation. But Oregon scored 46 points and racked up 491 total yards, 173 of which came on the ground. Freshman running back Royce Freeman ran for two touchdowns, while quarterback Marcus Mariota threw for 318 yards and three touchdowns. The Ducks used a perfect balance of power and speed that had the Spartans’ defense back-pedaling for much of the game. The Ducks’ blur offense really affected the second half as Oregon outscored Michigan State 28-3 over that time period.
Defense: It was a case of hit-or-miss for the Ducks. At times, the defense played phenomenally, and other times, they would miss tackles and blow opportunities. In the end though, this was a coming out party for the defense. Oregon held the Spartans’ power running game in check, giving up just 123 yards on the ground. The secondary struggled against the pass, as senior receiver Tony Lippett caught 11 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown. The Ducks, led by junior defensive linemen Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner, overpowered Michigan State all game long  though and the Spartans offense never truly found a rhythm.
Ohio State 49 – Michigan State 37: 
Offense: Freshman quarterback J.T. Barrett was a one-man wrecking crew for the Buckeyes as he accounted for five touchdowns and 386 total yards. But he won’t be playing in the National Championship due to injury. Sophomore running back Ezekiel Elliot ran behind an offensive line that dominated the Spartans defense. In total, Ohio State accounted for 568 yards of offense, while Elliot himself racked up 154 yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries. Senior wide receiver Devin Smith and sophomore receiver Michael Thomas were big-play threats and the two combined for 220 yards and two touchdowns on nine catches.
Defense: It wasn’t a good showing by the Buckeyes’ defense as they gave up 536 yards of offense, 358 through the air and 178 on the ground. There were times when Michigan State’s offense looked to be on cruise control as the Buckeyes were over-powered at the point of attack. Ohio State showed vulnerability to both the run and pass but it was the play-action game that hurt them the most.
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