Time, Network Set for Ohio State at Oregon, #3 at #6

Oregon will host Ohio State on October 12, 4:30 P.M. Pacific on NBC. The announcement came through just moments ago on social media.

The Buckeyes are #3 in the nation and a playoff and conference favorite. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has emerged as one of the most talented and electric players in the nation, and the rest of the offensive skill group are elite, NFL prospects.

Quarterback Will Howard has thrown for 1,039 yards and 8 touchdowns in OSU's 4-0 start, including four TDs Saturday against Michigan State. The 6-4, 235 transfer from Kansas State is a dangerous runner too, three touchdowns on the ground this year.

TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins both average over 8 yards a carry, each with the power and tackle-breaking determination to rival Ashton Jeanty. Smith is the star at receiver, but Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate are tough to cover also, big-play threats.

Ryan Day's 4-0 juggernaut ranks 3rd in the country in scoring offense at 48.8 points per game, but the defense may be even better. They're number one in scoring defense, allowing a scant 6.8 points per game, a unit that's led by elite NFL prospects J.T. Tuimoloau (2.5 sacks,) Caleb Downs (14 tackles,) and cornerback Denzel Burke (2 INTs.)

Oregon will have to play at a much different level to compete in this game. The Buckeyes are 1.5-point favorite at FanDuel, 68% chance to win according to ESPN analytics.

First, of course, the Ducks have to take care of business against Michigan State, Friday night in Autzen Stadium. The Buckeyes dumped the Spartans 38-7 in East Lansing this weekend. OSU hosts 3-1 Iowa Saturday, so Oregon will have an additional day to prepare.