Rose Bowl matchups

Oregon offense vs. Ohio State defense

This is going to be fun to watch, with the Ducks taking a fastbreak offense averaging 37.7 points a game against a Buckeyes defense giving up only 12.2. What gives?

Ohio State offense vs. Oregon defense

The Buckeyes obviously studied Oregon-Stanford tape and realized you beat the Ducks’ undersized defense by running right at them. Oregon’s motto will be “stop the run” and make Terrelle Pryor try to win the game with his arm.

Special teams

Ohio State senior kicker Aaron Pettrey has been cleared to play after returning from early November knee surgery. Oregon senior Morgan Flint has made 15 of 17 field goals, and don’t forget superstar “holder” Nate Costa, who saved the Arizona game.

Coaching

Jim Tressel is 4-4 in the postseason but has lost his last three BCS games since a win over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl. This is Chip Kelly’s first year in charge at Oregon, but it feels like longer.

Intangibles

Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is a magician but is prone to dropping the rabbit from time to time. Ohio State will need to pounce on every mistake.

Chris Dufresne’s prediction

Oregon 27, Ohio State 24.