Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Texas Longhorns: College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Cotton Bowl
The Texas Longhorns and Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face off in the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Friday, January 10, 2025. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with a spot in the national championship at stake.
Overview of the Matchup
Texas enters with a 13-2 record, earning their semifinal berth with a thrilling 39-31 double-overtime win over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. Resilience has been the hallmark of this Longhorns team, with a knack for delivering under pressure.
Ohio State boasts a 12-2 record, highlighted by a dominant 41-21 victory over undefeated Oregon in the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes rebounded strongly after their regular-season loss to Michigan, showcasing an explosive offense and a disciplined defense.
Statistical Analysis
Texas Longhorns
Led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, Texas thrives in play-action scenarios, exploiting defenses with precise passing and a balanced rushing attack. Defensively, the Longhorns rank among the top in several categories, making them a tough matchup for Ohio State’s prolific offense.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes field one of the nation’s most balanced attacks, with a lethal passing game and a strong ground component. Defensively, Ohio State has excelled in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities, a factor prominently displayed in their Rose Bowl triumph over Oregon.
Injury Reports and Player Availability
Both teams enter this matchup relatively healthy, a rarity at this stage of the season. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers has fully recovered from earlier injuries, significantly bolstering the Longhorns’ offense. Ohio State’s star players, including wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and running back TreVeyon Henderson, are ready to make an impact.
Betting Lines and Odds Movement
Spread: Ohio State -6
Over/Under: 52.5 points
The betting line has shifted slightly in favor of Ohio State, reflecting confidence in their recent dominant performances. Texas’ resilience and underdog status could attract late action.
Trends and Historical Angles
Texas leads the all-time series 2-1.
Their last meeting occurred in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, with Texas winning 24-21.
Ohio State has a strong track record in postseason games following a loss to Michigan, highlighting their ability to refocus under pressure.
Data-Driven Insights
Ohio State Defense
The Buckeyes have been particularly effective against play-action-heavy offenses, a hallmark of Texas’ approach. Defensive adjustments in this area could tilt the game in their favor.
Texas Secondary
Containing Ohio State’s elite receiving corps, especially Jeremiah Smith, will be critical for Texas. Expect defensive schemes designed to minimize big plays.
Key Player Insights
Texas Longhorns
Quinn Ewers: The former Ohio State quarterback adds intrigue and motivation to this matchup. His ability to stretch the field and manage pressure will be pivotal.
Defensive Backfield: A strong showing from Texas’ secondary is necessary to disrupt Ohio State’s rhythm.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Jeremiah Smith: A game-changing talent, Smith’s ability to win contested catches could decide key moments.
TreVeyon Henderson: Henderson’s versatility in the run and pass game adds a critical dimension to Ohio State’s offense.
