How long-distance travel could affect Ohio State in matchup vs. Oregon

The most anticipated matchup of college football's Week 7 slate is No. 2 Ohio State at No. 3 Oregon.

The primetime Big Ten matchup feels like the start of a new conference rivalry, given the programs' shared past.

In 10 total meetings, Ohio State has won nine times — four of which were part of national championship seasons for the Buckeyes (1957, 1961, 1968 and 2014).

However, the Ducks took the most recent bout in 2021, a 35-28 thrilling upset in Columbus.

The Buckeyes may yet have another cause for concern traveling to Eugene for the rematch on Saturday. This season, Big Ten teams that have traveled at least two time zones for a game are 2-10 in those same matchups.

Indiana (def. UCLA 42-13, Sept. 14) and UCLA (def. Hawaii 16-13, Aug. 31) are the only two programs to return home from the long treks victorious.

However, CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli interestingly pointed out Friday that out of the 12 matchups where Big Ten teams had to travel that far, the favorites won 10 times . Ohio State is a 3.5-point favorite according to FanDuel as of Friday night.

So, perhaps the Buckeyes don't have to worry about the long-distance jinx, but Oregon at home still cannot be dismissed so easily, even by Las Vegas.

The Ducks are 43-3 at Autzen Stadium since the start of the 2017 season and undefeated in their last 11 bouts on home turf.

Regardless of the travel, Oregon will be an extremely tough opponent for Ohio State to put away on the road.