Texas football is on the brink of national glory, returning to the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive year and set to face Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium this Friday. As a No. 5 seed, Texas enters the matchup as an underdog, mirroring their earlier surprise victory against Alabama in the 2023 season.
The Longhorns will encounter formidable competition from the Buckeyes, boasting an impressive collection of NFL-caliber talent. Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, has thrived thanks to a standout receiving corps that includes Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate. Howard’s earlier struggles against Texas in the Big 12 are overshadowed by this talented trio, which has helped elevate his performance to among the best in college football.
In contrast, Texas counters with the exceptional skills of Jim Thorpe Award winner Jahdae Barron and standout safeties Michael Taaffe and Andrew Mukuba. However, they will face a significant challenge in managing the offensive prowess presented by Ohio State.
The matchup will also pivot on the performance of Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, who must confront a well-rounded Buckeyes defense that features a strong defensive line led by JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. Safety Caleb Downs, an Alabama transfer having a stellar sophomore season, adds depth to the Ohio State secondary.
The Longhorns’ rushing attack underwhelmed against Arizona State, and running backs Quintrevion Wisner and Jaydon Blue will need to elevate their game to diversify Texas’ offense, which heavily relied on Ewers’ arm in that previous contest.
Predictions for the Cotton Bowl are mixed, with analysts from ESPN and CBS leaning toward Ohio State. For instance, ESPN’s College Football Power Index gives Ohio State a 54% chance of victory. ESPN’s predictions vary, with some analysts predicting a close contest, potentially swinging in favor of Texas due to strategic special teams play.
As excitement builds for the Cotton Bowl, the stakes are high for Texas as they seek not just to defeat a formidable Ohio State squad but to propel themselves to a national championship appearance. Despite the odds being against them, the Longhorns have demonstrated resilience and capability throughout the season. With strategic adjustments and a collective team effort, anything is possible on that stage.
In this critical clash of titans, fans will surely be treated to a thrilling game that showcases the best of college football while offering hope that Texas can upset the predictions and continue their championship journey.