Since Ohio State is going to play Clemson in the Orange Bowl, here’s what you need to know…
HISTORY:
The Buckeyes have played there only once before, a 1977 win against Colorado by a final score of 27-10. Coach Woody Hayes sent second string quarterback Ron Gerald into the game, and he sparked OSU to victory to win offensive Most Outstanding Player honors. Tom Cousineau earned recognition for his work on defense, and tied a still-standing Orange Bowl record with 13 solo tackles.
OSU’s Urban Meyer has been to the Orange Bowl, too. In fact, he won a national title by coaching his Florida Gators to a 24-14 win over Oklahoma in 2009.
Clemson is 2-2 in their four Orange Bowl appearances, their most recent of which was in 2012.
THIS YEAR’S GAME:
Date-January 3, 2014
Time-8:30 pm
Location-Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens
Radio Home-97.1 The Fan
THE OPPONENT:
Clemson (10-2) finished second, checking in behind Florida State, in the ACC’s Atlantic Division. They were the country’s 11th best scoring offense and the 17th best scoring defense leading up to the bowl season.
The Tigers are led by quarterback Tajh Boyd, who is ranked 15th nationally in passing yards, has 29 throwing touchdowns to 9 interceptions, and is the team’s second-leading rusher; wide receiver Sammy Watkins; and running back Roderick McDowell.
Defensively, they are paced by First-Team, All-ACC selection DE Vic Beasley, and second teamer CB Bashaud Breeland. LB Spencer Shuey is the club’s leading tackler with 89.
*Post was updated to reflect the matchup is now official.
