After a thrilling win over No. 7 seed Texas A&M on Dec. 20, the Hurricanes were operating a high-level across the board against the Buckeyes. Meanwhile, Ohio State's offense looked out of rhythm in its first live action since the Big Ten Championship Game on Dec. 6.

Teams that receive a first-round bye are 1-7, with Indiana's Rose Bowl win over Alabama this year the only victory by a CFP top-four seed.

Following the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, Vols Wire provides SEC football power rankings. Tennessee is ranked No. 9. Week 5 - Tennessee 41, Mississippi State 34 OT (Starkville, Mississippi)

Good morning, and happy Friday! Today's report is a tag-team effort written by Otto Strong, though not without significant contributions from Brad Crawford on all of yesterday's College Football Playoff action and Zachary Pereles previewing Week 18 of the NFL regular season.

A fan-favorite known for his creative face paint will be one of the most experienced defenders on a College Football Playoff team next season.

Here's where ESPN's "College GameDay" is heading for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal round, including location, schedule and time:

The second College Football Playoff semifinal is set as No. 6 Ole Miss prepares to play No. 10 Miami in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 8. The matchup is the first between these two schools since 1951, and represents each's first trip to the national semis.