In a battle of Big Ten versus Big 12 powers, the Ohio State Buckeyes emerged victorious over the Texas Longhorns in the College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal at the Cotton Bowl. The Buckeyes, who entered the game as 6.5-point favorites, controlled the game from start to finish, ultimately winning with a score of 42-20.
Ohio State’s victory was built on a strong performance from both their offense and defense. The Buckeyes’ offense, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, was efficient and explosive. Stroud completed 23 of 34 passes for 349 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for 43 yards and a touchdown. Running back Treyveon Henderson added 119 yards on the ground, including a 68-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.
The Buckeyes’ defense was equally impressive, holding Texas to just 20 points and 301 total yards. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg led the way with 10 tackles, while cornerback Denzel Burke had an interception and a pass breakup.
Texas, meanwhile, struggled to keep pace with Ohio State’s high-powered offense. Quarterback Quinn Ewers completed just 17 of 38 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns, while also throwing two interceptions. Running back Bijan Robinson was held to just 59 yards on 14 carries.
The Longhorns’ defense was also unable to contain Ohio State’s offense. The Buckeyes averaged 6.5 yards per play and converted 11 of 16 third downs. Texas’ pass rush was non-existent, as Stroud was not sacked once.
Ohio State’s victory in the Cotton Bowl sets up a highly anticipated matchup with the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship game on January 9th. Georgia, the defending national champions, defeated TCU in the other CFP Semifinal. The Bulldogs will be favored in the championship game, but the Buckeyes will be looking to prove that they are the true number one team in the country.
If Ohio State can defeat Georgia, it would be their first national championship since 2014. It would also be Ryan Day’s first national championship as Ohio State’s head coach.
Ohio State’s victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl was a statement win for the Buckeyes. They proved that they are one of the best teams in the country and that they are a legitimate contender for the national championship. The Buckeyes will now face their toughest test of the season when they take on Georgia in the CFP National Championship game. If they can defeat the Bulldogs, they will cement their place as the best team in college football.
