Ohio State prepares to face Tennessee in Saturday’s College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal, the Buckeyes will

As Ohio State prepares to face Tennessee in Saturday’s College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal, the Buckeyes will need to focus on several key players from the Volunteers who have the potential to shift the game’s momentum. Tennessee boasts an explosive offense, a solid defense, and a few standout players who could cause problems for Ohio State. Here are the Tennessee players that Buckeye fans should be most concerned about in this high-stakes matchup.

1. Joe Milton III – Quarterback

Joe Milton is the engine that drives Tennessee’s offense. A physical specimen at 6-foot-5, 245 pounds, Milton has one of the strongest arms in college football, capable of launching deep passes with ease. After taking over for the injured Hendon Hooker, Milton has displayed flashes of brilliance, but also moments of inconsistency. If he can harness his arm strength and make accurate throws, particularly on deep balls, he can stretch Ohio State’s defense and open up the field for his playmakers. While Milton’s decision-making is still a work in progress, if he gets hot, he has the potential to make huge plays downfield and challenge the Buckeyes’ secondary.

2. Jalin Hyatt – Wide Receiver

Jalin Hyatt is arguably the most dangerous weapon in Tennessee’s offensive arsenal. With elite speed and excellent route-running ability, Hyatt has been a nightmare for opposing defenses this season. He leads the team in receiving yards and touchdowns and has the ability to take over games with his big-play ability. Ohio State’s defensive backs will need to be at their best to prevent Hyatt from getting behind them, as he can turn a short pass into a long touchdown in the blink of an eye. If Hyatt is able to establish a rhythm early, he could give the Buckeyes’ secondary fits and provide Milton with a reliable downfield target.

3. Brew McCoy – Wide Receiver

Another key member of Tennessee’s dynamic receiving corps, Brew McCoy is a versatile and physical receiver who can cause problems for defenders both on the outside and in the slot. McCoy has a knack for winning contested catches and moving the chains in crucial situations. While he doesn’t always receive the same attention as Hyatt, McCoy has proven to be a reliable option for Milton, especially in key moments. Ohio State will need to keep McCoy in check, as his ability to make tough catches in traffic and exploit mismatches could keep Tennessee’s offense moving and create scoring opportunities.

4. Dylan Sampson – Running Back

Dylan Sampson is one of the most explosive players in Tennessee’s backfield. While the Vols have used a committee approach at running back, Sampson has emerged as the most dangerous option with his speed, vision, and ability to break tackles. He is a threat both as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield, giving Tennessee the ability to use him in a variety of ways. Ohio State’s defense will need to stay disciplined and tackle well in the open field to prevent Sampson from breaking free for long runs. If Sampson is able to get into space, he could wear down the Buckeyes’ defense and open up the play-action game for Milton and the Tennessee passing attack.

5. Byron Young – Edge Rusher

Byron Young is one of the most disruptive forces on Tennessee’s defense. As an edge rusher, Young has been a consistent presence in the backfield this season, collecting multiple sacks and pressures. At 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, Young combines speed, power, and an impressive motor to collapse the pocket and make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. Ohio State’s offensive line will have to account for Young on every passing play, as his ability to change the game with a sack or forced pressure can stifle the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm. If he gets consistent penetration, he could throw off Ohio State’s timing and create turnovers or stalled drives.

Conclusion: Ohio State Needs to Focus on Key Matchups

Tennessee’s offense is potent and balanced, with multiple playmakers who can create explosive plays. Joe Milton’s arm strength, combined with the deep-threat abilities of Jalin Hyatt and Brew McCoy, will test Ohio State’s secondary. On the ground, Dylan Sampson provides another challenge, capable of breaking through the Buckeyes’ defense with his speed and vision. On defense, Byron Young’s pressure on the quarterback could be the difference-maker, making it crucial for Ohio State’s offensive line to provide protection.

For Ohio State fans, the key to success will be limiting the impact of these five players. Containing Milton and Hyatt will be critical, while preventing Sampson from breaking off big runs and keeping Young from disrupting the offense will require a complete team effort. If the Buckeyes can execute their game plan and control these threats, they’ll have a strong chance of advancing in the CFP.