COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Rose Bowl was a huge success for the Buckeyes, who beat Oregon by 20 points and dominated for most of the game.
People back in central Ohio could not have been more excited to win against the undefeated Ducks. Bars and restaurants across Columbus were full of Buckeye fans Wednesday night as they cheered on their team. The excitement from fans was palpable.
“We’re feeling on top of the world. I mean, what’s better than this? And we’re thinking about Texas next. We’re ready to fight,” said fan Sammi Shapiro.
People came into the Oregon game with some anxiety after the Buckeyes lost to the Ducks earlier this season, but fans said the team clearly had no problem Wednesday night.
“Feeling great. Our team came back and we had a good rematch and showed we’re the better team,” said fan Grace Schuppe.
“It went way better than expected. It was a great game,” added fan Learin McHugh.
The Buckeyes scored within the first few minutes of the Rose Bowl, and fans said that had them feeling confident from the beginning.
“After that first quarter, I think we really had some high hopes. They came out of the gate hot and they continued that streak through the rest of the game. Definitely caught a little bit by surprise but we’ll take it everyday,” Shapiro said.
Fans were especially impressed with how the Buckeyes are battling through the new playoff tournament.
“First year of 12 team playoffs. It takes a lot to beat four really good teams in a row," fan Drake Hisrich said. "The first two games we looked excellent. We’re excited for the next challenge."
“We’re excited for the road ahead. As an alumni, it’s always exciting to see and this could be our year,” said Maddie Cimorell, another fan.
If OSU wins their next game, it earns a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. People said they are feeling good about those odds.
“Texas is a great squad. They have a great defense, a great offense, but I think the way we played the last two games we have what it takes to win it all and beat every team and win the national championship,” said Hisrich.
After Wednesday’s win against Oregon, it’s on to the semifinals for Ohio State. The Buckeyes will take on Texas in the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 10.
