The 2022 Cotton Bowl Classic was a thrilling affair that saw the Texas Longhorns pull off a stunning upset over the Ohio State Buckeyes in a high-scoring showdown. The game was filled with twists and turns, and both teams displayed their offensive firepower throughout the contest.
The Longhorns struck first with a 32-yard field goal by Bert Auburn after a sustained drive that ate up over 6 minutes of the clock. Ohio State responded with a touchdown drive of their own, capped off by a 5-yard run by Miyan Williams. The Buckeyes took a 7-3 lead with 3:23 remaining in the first quarter.
Texas dominated the second quarter, scoring on their first three possessions. Quinn Ewers connected with Xavier Worthy for a 75-yard touchdown strike to put the Longhorns back in front 10-7. After Ohio State tied the game at 10 on a field goal, Bijan Robinson broke free for a 34-yard touchdown run to give Texas a 17-10 advantage. The Longhorns then forced a turnover and cashed in with another field goal to extend their lead to 20-10 heading into halftime.
Ohio State came out strong in the second half, scoring on their opening possession with a 2-yard pass from C.J. Stroud to Cade Stover. The Buckeyes then tied the game at 20 on Noah Ruggles’ 38-yard field goal.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows. Texas regained the lead on a 1-yard touchdown run by Robinson, but Ohio State answered right back with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Stroud toEmeka Egbuka to tie the game at 27.
The Longhorns then took the lead for good on a 37-yard field goal by Auburn with 2:23 remaining. Ohio State had a chance to tie the game and force overtime, but Ruggles’ 50-yard field goal attempt sailed wide left as time expired, giving Texas the thrilling 30-27 victory.
Texas outgained Ohio State in total offense, 429 yards to 386. The Longhorns also had a significant edge in time of possession, holding the ball for over 36 minutes. Robinson led the Texas offense with 159 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Ewers passed for 272 yards and a touchdown. Stroud threw for 282 yards and two touchdowns for Ohio State, but he was also intercepted twice.
The Cotton Bowl Classic was a game of two halves. Texas controlled the first half, while Ohio State dominated the second half. In the end, the Longhorns were able to hold on for the win thanks to a strong performance from their offense and some timely stops from their defense.
The victory was a major upset for Texas, who were not ranked in the top 25 heading into the game. It is also a sign that the Longhorns are on the rise under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Ohio State, on the other hand, will need to regroup after a disappointing performance.
The Cotton Bowl Classic was a thrilling game that will be remembered for years to come. Texas pulled off a stunning upset over Ohio State, but the Buckeyes will be back in contention for a national championship next season. The game also showcased the talent of some of college football’s best players, including Robinson, Ewers, and Stroud.
The Cotton Bowl Classic is one of the most prestigious bowl games in college football, and it is always a treat to see two of the nation’s best teams square off. This year’s game was no exception, and it will be one that fans will be talking about for years to come.
