FOX Sports’ RJ Young offers up five takeaways from the quarterfinal round of the College Football Playoff and explains why Ohio State is the…

As the College Football Playoff quarterfinals come to a close, FOX Sports analyst RJ Young has provided his expert insights into what the games revealed about the contenders and the state of college football. Among the standout storylines is Ohio State’s continued dominance and why Young believes the Buckeyes are primed for a deep postseason run. Here, we break down Young’s five major takeaways from the quarterfinal round and explore what they mean for the rest of the playoffs.

1. Ohio State’s Unstoppable Momentum

Ohio State’s performance in the quarterfinals was nothing short of electrifying. The Buckeyes showcased a balanced attack, blending offensive firepower with defensive resilience. RJ Young was quick to highlight the team’s poise under pressure, noting that their ability to adapt to in-game challenges sets them apart from other programs.

“Ohio State isn’t just winning,” Young said. “They’re asserting themselves as the team to beat. From their precision on offense to their disruptive defense, the Buckeyes are firing on all cylinders.”

Key players like quarterback Kyle McCord and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. delivered standout performances, further cementing Ohio State’s status as a legitimate title contender. Young emphasized that if the Buckeyes maintain this level of play, it’s hard to imagine any team stopping them.

2. Quarterback Play Remains the Deciding Factor

Across the quarterfinal matchups, elite quarterback play emerged as a common thread among the winning teams. Young pointed to several signal-callers who rose to the occasion, including Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy and Georgia’s Carson Beck. However, he reserved special praise for Kyle McCord, whose leadership and composure were instrumental in Ohio State’s victory.

“In today’s game, the quarterback is everything,” Young explained. “Ohio State’s Kyle McCord is proving that he has the skill set and the mindset to lead his team all the way.”

Young also noted that as the playoff field narrows, the pressure on quarterbacks will only intensify. The ability to perform in high-stakes moments could be the defining factor in determining this year’s national champion.

3. Defense Wins Championships—And Ohio State Has One

While much of the attention in college football focuses on explosive offenses, Young reminded fans that defense remains a cornerstone of championship teams. Ohio State’s defense delivered a masterclass in the quarterfinals, stifling their opponent’s rushing attack and creating key turnovers. Players like linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau were instrumental in the Buckeyes’ success.

“Ohio State’s defense is as good as any in the country,” Young said. “They’re physical, disciplined, and opportunistic—everything you need to win in the postseason.”

Young’s analysis underscores the importance of a balanced team approach. While Ohio State’s offense grabs headlines, their defense quietly lays the foundation for sustained success.

4. The Importance of Coaching Adjustments

In the high-stakes environment of the College Football Playoff, coaching often makes the difference between winning and losing. Young praised Ohio State’s Ryan Day for his strategic acumen, particularly his ability to make crucial in-game adjustments. Day’s decision-making was evident in how the Buckeyes countered their opponent’s strengths and exploited weaknesses.

“Great coaching isn’t just about X’s and O’s,” Young noted. “It’s about adaptability and preparation. Ryan Day has shown that he’s one of the best in the business.”

Young also highlighted the role of assistant coaches, whose behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed but is critical to a team’s success. For Ohio State, the contributions of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline have been invaluable.

5. The Playoff Field Is Narrowing, and the Stakes Are Rising

With the quarterfinals in the rearview mirror, only the best teams remain in contention for the national championship. Young stressed that every detail matters at this stage of the playoffs, from player execution to coaching decisions and even special teams play.

“The margin for error is razor-thin now,” Young explained. “Teams can’t afford mistakes, and the pressure will only intensify as we move closer to the title game.”

For Ohio State, this means maintaining their focus and building on the momentum they’ve generated. Young believes the Buckeyes have all the tools needed to win it all, but they’ll need to bring their A-game in every remaining matchup.

What’s Next for Ohio State?

As the Buckeyes prepare for their semifinal showdown, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Young’s analysis paints a picture of a team peaking at the right time, with the talent and leadership to secure a championship. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, including potential matchups against powerhouse programs like Georgia and Michigan.

Ohio State fans have plenty to be excited about, but as Young reminds us, nothing is guaranteed in the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes will need to stay locked in and continue playing with the intensity and precision that got them this far.

Conclusion

RJ Young’s five takeaways from the quarterfinal round offer a compelling snapshot of the College Football Playoff landscape. For Ohio State, the message is clear: they’re in a strong position, but the journey is far from over. With elite talent, stellar coaching, and a balanced team approach, the Buckeyes have what it takes to compete for a national title. Now, it’s up to them to seize the moment and turn potential into reality.