The Ohio State Buckeyes secured a victory over the Texas Longhorns with a final score of 28-14 in the Cotton Bowl Classic held on January 10. This win means Ohio State will face off against Notre Dame for the national championship in Atlanta on January 20.
The game, played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, showcased a thrilling fourth quarter where Ohio State took the lead after a significant play. With less than eight minutes remaining, the Buckeyes scored a touchdown to go up 21-14. Texas attempted to respond but was thwarted when quarterback Quinn Ewers was sacked, leading to a fumble that Ohio State returned for an impressive 83-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 28-14 with just under three minutes left. A subsequent interception by Ewers ended any hopes of a Texas comeback.
The scoring sequence began in the first quarter when Ohio State struck first with a touchdown, leading 7-0. Texas responded, managing to tie the game before Ohio State pulled ahead again just before halftime. Despite some struggles—Texas fumbled twice in the second quarter and Ohio State battling penalties—the Buckeyes maintained control of the game.
Exciting matchups defined the competition, particularly the battle between standout players like Ohio State quarterback Will Howard and Texas’s Ewers, both with resilient records in past big games, including prior championships. Another highlight was the clash between Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron and Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith, adding a layer of intrigue to the contest.
This victory not only advances Ohio State towards the championship but also sets the stage for an exciting showdown against Notre Dame, promising fans a thrilling culmination to the college football season. With a strong performance in the Cotton Bowl, Ohio State aims to capitalize on their momentum as they head into the high-stakes championship game.