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As we enter Week 7 of the 2024 college football season, the stakes are higher than ever, with pivotal matchups that will shape the course of the season and potentially the College Football Playoff (CFP) race. This week features two particularly eye-catching games: Ohio State’s first major test against a rising Big Ten challenger, and the annual Red River Showdown, which comes with a twist as both Texas and Oklahoma prepare for their impending transition to the SEC. In this article, we’ll break down both matchups and explore their implications for the rest of the season.
Ohio State’s First Real Test: Facing Big Ten Competition
The Ohio State Buckeyes, one of the perennial powerhouses in college football, have cruised through the first six weeks of the season. Their offense, led by a dynamic mix of veteran leadership and explosive talent, has shown flashes of brilliance. However, they have yet to face a true challenge. That changes in Week 7, as they prepare for their first real test against a formidable Big Ten opponent.
Ohio State’s Offense: A Deep Dive
Ohio State’s offense has been a juggernaut in the early part of the season, averaging over 40 points per game. Quarterback Kyle McCord has stepped into the starting role with poise, showcasing his ability to make smart decisions and execute head coach Ryan Day’s complex offensive schemes. McCord’s connection with wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka has been particularly impressive. Harrison, a likely top pick in the NFL Draft, continues to dazzle with his ability to create separation and make contested catches, while Egbuka complements him with his speed and versatility.
The Buckeyes’ running game has also been a focal point of their success. TreVeyon Henderson, when healthy, has been electric, showcasing his explosiveness and vision. Miyan Williams provides a power-running option, giving the offense balance and unpredictability. The offensive line, although young, has held up well, protecting McCord and opening lanes for the backs.
But despite their offensive prowess, Ohio State’s schedule up to this point hasn’t included any top-tier defenses. In Week 7, they’ll face a defense capable of disrupting their rhythm and potentially putting them in uncomfortable situations.
The Big Ten Challenge: A Defensive Powerhouse
The Buckeyes’ opponent in Week 7 represents a significant step up in competition. They’ll be facing a Big Ten team that prides itself on defense, one that has built its identity around stifling opposing offenses. With a front seven that excels in both pass rush and run-stopping, Ohio State’s offensive line will face its toughest challenge yet.
This defense is known for creating pressure on quarterbacks, forcing mistakes, and limiting big plays down the field. Linebackers with sideline-to-sideline speed will test Henderson’s ability to find running lanes, and the secondary’s physicality could disrupt the timing between McCord and his receivers.
One key matchup to watch will be Ohio State’s offensive line against this aggressive pass rush. If the Buckeyes can protect McCord, it will allow him to utilize his talented receiving corps. But if they struggle to provide time, Ohio State could find itself in an uncomfortable spot for the first time this season.
Implications for Ohio State
A win in Week 7 would solidify Ohio State’s status as a CFP contender and give them momentum as they head into the more difficult portion of their schedule. However, a loss could expose weaknesses and derail their playoff hopes. This game will also be a litmus test for McCord, who has shown flashes of brilliance but is still relatively inexperienced.
The Red River Showdown: Texas vs. Oklahoma, with an SEC Twist
The Red River Showdown is one of college football’s most iconic rivalries. Every year, Texas and Oklahoma square off in a high-stakes game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, and 2024 is no exception. However, this year’s matchup comes with an added layer of intrigue, as both programs are preparing for their transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2025.
Texas Longhorns: Back to National Relevance?
The Texas Longhorns have long been one of college football’s blueblood programs, but their performance over the past decade has fallen short of expectations. However, in 2024, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns appear to be back in the national spotlight. Led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, Texas has stormed through the first half of the season with a balanced offense and a defense that’s been much improved from previous years.
Ewers, a former five-star recruit, has finally begun to live up to his potential. He’s demonstrated his ability to stretch the field with deep passes while also managing the game effectively. His connection with receivers like Xavier Worthy and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders has made Texas one of the more dangerous offenses in the country.
On defense, Texas has benefited from strong play along the defensive line and improved secondary play. The Longhorns’ ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks has been key to their success, and they’ll need to continue that trend against an explosive Oklahoma offense.
Oklahoma Sooners: The New-Look Offense Under Brent Venables
On the other side of the rivalry, the Oklahoma Sooners have transformed head coach Brent Venables, who is in his second season after taking over for Lincoln Riley. Venables, a defensive-minded coach, has instilled a toughness in the Sooners’ defense that was often lacking in previous years.
However, it’s Oklahoma’s offense that has garnered the most attention in 2024. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel has taken control of the Sooners’ attack, utilizing a combination of quick passes and deep shots to stretch defenses. His accuracy and decision-making have been critical, as has the play of Oklahoma’s wide receivers, particularly Jalil Farooq and Andrel Anthony.
The Sooners’ running game, led by Jovantae Barnes and Gavin Sawchuk, has provided balance to the offense, making it difficult for defenses to key in on any one aspect of the game. Oklahoma’s offensive line has been solid, allowing Gabriel to operate with confidence and opening holes for the running backs.
The SEC Factor: A Glimpse Into the Future
With both Texas and Oklahoma set to join the SEC in 2025, this year’s Red River Showdown offers a preview of what’s to come. Both programs are preparing for the increased level of competition they’ll face in the SEC, and this rivalry game is an opportunity to prove they belong among the elite.
For Texas, a win would reinforce the idea that they are back to national relevance and capable of competing at the highest level. For Oklahoma, a victory would further validate Venables’ approach and demonstrate that the Sooners can thrive in the SEC’s tough, physical environment.
Both teams are playing for more than just bragging rights this year. A win in the Red River Showdown could have major implications for the CFP race, as both Texas and Oklahoma have aspirations of making the playoff. The loser, meanwhile, could see their path to the postseason become much more difficult.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Ohio State’s Offensive Line vs. Opponent’s Defensive Front: The success of Ohio State’s offense will hinge on its ability to protect Kyle McCord and open running lanes for TreVeyon Henderson. This will be a battle of strength and technique in the trenches.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Elite Secondary: Harrison’s ability to get open against a top-tier secondary will be crucial for Ohio State. If he’s held in check, the Buckeyes’ passing game could struggle.
3. Quinn Ewers vs. Oklahoma’s Pass Rush: Texas’ quarterback will need to handle pressure from Oklahoma’s defensive front. His decision-making under duress could be the difference between victory and defeat.
4. Dillon Gabriel vs. Texas Secondary: Gabriel has been lights out this season, but Texas’ secondary has been much improved. This matchup could dictate the flow of the game.
5. Red River Showdown Special Teams: In rivalry games, special teams often play a critical role. A big return or a key field goal could swing the momentum in this high-stakes contest.
Predictions
Ohio State’s First Test: Ohio State has the talent to win this game, but they’ll need to avoid mistakes and play disciplined football against a stout defense. Expect a closer game than Buckeye fans may be used to this season, but Ohio State’s offensive firepower should prevail in the end.
Red River Showdown: This one could go either way. Texas has the more balanced team, but Oklahoma’s offense has been explosive. Ultimately, Texas’ improved defense and Quinn Ewers’ poise in the pocket give the Longhorns the edge in what should be a thrilling rivalry game.
Final Thoughts: Week 7’s Impact on the Playoff Race
Week 7 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the 2024 college football season. Ohio State’s first test will give us a clearer picture of their playoff potential, while the Red River Showdown could be a CFP eliminator for the losing team. Both games offer high stakes, compelling storylines, and matchups that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Regardless of the outcomes, the landscape of the CFP race will be dramatically altered after this week’s action.
In a season where every game matters, Week 7 promises to deliver some of the most exciting football we’ve seen so far. Buckle up, college football fans—things are about to get interesting!
