
The upcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal at the Cotton Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes is generating significant excitement among fans and analysts alike.
Scheduled for January 10, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, this matchup features two of college football’s most storied programs, each vying for a spot in the National Championship.
Team Overviews:
Texas Longhorns (13–2): Under head coach Steve Sarkisian, Texas has demonstrated resilience throughout the season. After an 11–1 regular-season record, with a sole loss to Georgia, the Longhorns fell to the Bulldogs again in the SEC Championship Game. However, they rebounded in the CFP, securing victories against Clemson (38–24) and Arizona State (39–31 in double overtime) to earn their place in the semifinal.
Ohio State Buckeyes (12–2): Led by head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes navigated a challenging schedule, finishing the regular season at 10–2, with losses to Oregon and Michigan. In the CFP, Ohio State showcased dominance with a 42–17 win over Tennessee and a 41–21 upset against top-seeded Oregon in the Rose Bowl, highlighting their offensive prowess and defensive solidity.
Key Matchups to Watch:
1. Quarterback Duel: Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, a former Ohio State player, faces his old team, adding an intriguing narrative. Ewers has been instrumental in Texas’ offensive success, and his performance against a familiar defense will be pivotal. On the other side, Ohio State’s quarterback has been in exceptional form, leading a high-powered offense that has been relentless in the postseason.
2. Defensive Showdown: Both teams boast formidable defenses. Texas’ secondary, led by Thorpe Award-winning nickel Jahdae Barron, will be tested by Ohio State’s explosive passing game, particularly freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has been sensational in the playoffs. Conversely, Ohio State’s defense aims to contain Texas’ balanced offensive attack, making this a critical aspect of the game.
3. Coaching Strategies: The tactical battle between Sarkisian and Day will be fascinating. Sarkisian’s offensive ingenuity versus Day’s adaptability and game management could determine the game’s flow and outcome.
4. Special Teams Impact: In high-stakes games, special teams often play a decisive role. Field position, kicking accuracy, and return games are areas where either team could gain a crucial advantage.
5. Historical Context: This game marks the fourth meeting between these programs, with Texas leading the series 2–1. Their last encounter was in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, where Texas secured a 24–21 victory. The historical backdrop adds an extra layer of intrigue to this semifinal clash.
Betting Insights:
As of January 9, 2025, Ohio State is favored by 6 points over Texas. The over/under for the game is set at 53.5 points, indicating expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair.
Conclusion:
The Cotton Bowl semifinal between Texas and Ohio State promises to be a compelling contest, featuring elite talent, strategic depth, and rich historical significance. Fans can anticipate a game where every play carries weight, and the outcome will hinge on execution in critical moments. The winner will advance to the National Championship, moving one step closer to college football’s ultimate prize.