CFP National Championship Preview

Tonight, it's the inaugural CFP National Championship game, as Oregon will play Ohio State in Arlington, Texas (7:30 PM CT, ESPN).

Couple quick thoughts about the game:
1. Marcus Mariota will try to become the latest Heisman Trophy winner to win a national championship, after Jameis Winston was able to do that last year in Pasadena.
2. As with many football games, this one will be won in the trenches with the key match-up being between Oregon's offensive line and Ohio State's defensive line. The Ducks' up-tempo offense overwhelmed Florida State but will only work if they are able to wear down the Buckeyes' defensive front who have future NFL players in Michael Bennett and Joey Bosa.
3. On the flip side, Oregon's defense will try to stop an explosive Ohio State offense which overwhelmed Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. I think Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner, and Tony Washington need to have big games in getting pressure on Cardale Jones and the physical Ohio State offensive line.
4. SEC missing: First championship game since 2006 epic between USC and Texas to not have an SEC team present.

5. Running game key to both sides: Oregon averaged 6.7 yards per carry against Florida State, and Ohio State averaged 6.9 yards per carry against Alabama in their respective semifinals.
6. Don't really have a great feel for this game but I'm rooting for Oregon and picking them to win, because I think their up-tempo offense will eventually wear down the Buckeyes, and Mariota will be able to make plays in the passing game that Alabama's Blake Sims was unable to make.

#2 Oregon 42, #4 Ohio State 38