EUGENE — Don Pellum, defensive coordinator for the Oregon Ducks, talked on Wednesday about preparing to take on Ohio State in the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Ohio State.

There are differences, he said. At the Rose Bowl, Oregon and Florida State arrived in Southern California several days before the game to practice, yes, but also to take part in a variety of events that are part of the game's tradition. The trip to Arlington, Texas, Pellum said, is short and strictly game-focused.

In the semifinals, Oregon rolled Florida State in a 59-20 win. Ohio State defeated Alabama 42-35 to get to the title game.

Pellum talked about the challenges posed by the Buckeyes' offense. And he talked about keeping the Ducks to their schedule, similar to the schedule leading up to the season-opener against South Dakota on Aug. 30, and the schedule heading into every other game this season.

Consistency is key, Pellum said.

"We have continued, as coaches, to preach the exact, same thing," Pellum said. "Fundamentals, the tackling, the leverage and the communication. ... I think it's a product of us continuing to stay the course."

— Molly Blue | mblue@oregonian.com