In a thrilling College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured a 28-14 victory over the Texas Longhorns, propelling them to the national championship game against Notre Dame.
The game, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, was marked by standout performances and pivotal moments. Ohio State’s senior defensive end, Jack Sawyer, delivered a game-changing play with two minutes remaining. Sawyer forced a fumble from Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, his former freshman roommate, and returned it 83 yards for a touchdown, sealing the Buckeyes’ win. Reflecting on the play, Sawyer remarked, “I almost blacked out when I scooped it and saw nothing but green grass ahead of me.”
The first half showcased strong defensive efforts from both teams. Ohio State initiated scoring with a methodical 10-play drive, culminating in a nine-yard touchdown run by running back Quinshon Judkins. Texas responded late in the second quarter when Ewers connected with running back Jaydon Blue for an 18-yard touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7 with just 29 seconds left. However, Ohio State quickly regained the lead. Quarterback Will Howard threw a screen pass to senior running back TreVeyon Henderson, who sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown, giving the Buckeyes a 14-7 advantage at halftime.
The Longhorns’ defense made significant plays in the second half, including an interception by senior linebacker David Gbenda that halted an Ohio State drive. Despite these efforts, the Buckeyes extended their lead in the fourth quarter. A 13-play, 88-yard drive was highlighted by a crucial fourth-and-two conversion, where Howard’s 18-yard run kept the drive alive. Judkins capped it off with a one-yard touchdown run, putting Ohio State ahead 21-14 with just over seven minutes remaining.
Texas had a chance to equalize, advancing to Ohio State’s one-yard line. However, the Buckeyes’ defense held firm, culminating in Sawyer’s decisive fumble return. Sawyer’s performance earned him the Felix R. McKnight Defensive MVP Trophy, while Howard received the J. Curtis Sanford Offensive MVP Trophy for his contributions.
This victory advances Ohio State to the CFP National Championship, where they will face Notre Dame. The Buckeyes are seeking their first national title since 2014, while the Fighting Irish aim for their first since 1988. The championship game is scheduled for January 20, coinciding with the presidential inauguration. Vice President-elect JD Vance, an Ohio State alumnus, humorously remarked about the scheduling conflict, indicating his commitment to attend the inauguration while supporting his team from Washington.
The Cotton Bowl victory not only propels Ohio State into the national spotlight but also underscores the team’s resilience and determination throughout the season. As they prepare to face Notre Dame, the Buckeyes carry the momentum of a hard-fought win and the aspirations of securing a national championship.
