After Ohio State’s tough loss to Oregon in October, cornerback Denzel Burke took a step back to process the defeat. He had been beaten multiple times by some of Oregon’s top receivers in the biggest game of the season up to that point. To clear his head, Burke deleted his social media and took nearly a week to move past the game.
Now, Burke has a shot at redemption.
On Wednesday, the Buckeyes will face Oregon once again at the Rose Bowl, giving Burke and the Ohio State defense the chance to avenge their October 12 loss.
“Playing corner means you’re isolated, so anything can happen,” Burke explained on Rose Bowl media day. “But that’s what I love about it — the challenge. I’m excited for this rematch.”
In the first game, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel threw for 341 yards and two touchdowns — his best performance of the season against a Football Bowl Subdivision opponent. Burke gave up two touchdowns, which played a major role in Ohio State’s narrow one-point loss. Now, he gets another chance to take on the Ducks.
“I’ve always wanted a second chance, and now here it is,” Burke said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Let’s make it count.”
Oregon’s offense, which had been relatively conservative with the passing game earlier in the season, took a much more aggressive approach in their October matchup. The Buckeyes struggled to contain that new, downfield attack, and Burke was among those caught off guard.
This time around, Burke feels much more prepared, having analyzed Oregon’s offensive strategy.
“Looking back, I was just caught off guard. I wasn’t expecting the ball to come to me,” Burke said, comparing Oregon’s offense to “basketball on grass.” “Now, I’m more focused, more alert, and ready to do my job.”
When it comes to adjustments, Burke doesn’t see the need for drastic changes. He’s treating the first game as a learning experience, ready to bring those lessons into the rematch.
“I know how to handle situations like that now,” Burke said. “As we move through these playoffs and take the next step in my career, I’m ready to bring that experience to the next level.”
