Excitement is building as the Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns prepare to face off in the Cotton Bowl on January 10th at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both teams have made impressive runs in the College Football Playoff, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Ohio State is favored by six points, and many fans are eager to see how this game could impact the path toward the National Championship.
How These Teams Got Here
Ohio State and Texas have taken different paths to arrive at this moment. The Buckeyes showcased their strength by outscoring their playoff opponents 83-38, demonstrating a powerful offense that can quickly put up points. Meanwhile, Texas had a thrilling battle in their previous matchup, overcoming a fourth-quarter deficit to beat Arizona State with a final score of 39-31.
How the QBs Stack Up
The quarterbacks for each team will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this Cotton Bowl. Ohio State’s Will Howard has been phenomenal, throwing for more than 300 yards in each of his playoff games. On the other hand, Texas’s Quinn Ewers has had an up-and-down season and will need to find his rhythm to keep pace with Ohio State’s explosive offense.
Texas’ Home-Field Advantage … and the Weather
This matchup will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, giving the Longhorns a slight edge with the home-field advantage. Although some rumblings of a winter storm have been heard, officials have confirmed that the game will go on as planned, much to the relief of fans and players alike.
Players to Watch
There are several standout players to keep an eye on during the game. For Ohio State, running back TreVeyon Henderson has been a standout performer, rushing for 925 yards and scoring 8 touchdowns throughout the season. On the Texas side, tight end Gunnar Helm will be a key player, leading the team with 58 receptions for 744 yards and 7 touchdowns, making him a significant target for Ewers.
Key to the Game
This game hinges on Ohio State’s ability to exploit Texas’s pass defense, which allowed significantly more yards in the playoffs than in the regular season. If Texas can step up and solidify its defense, it could make for a very competitive game. However, if Ohio State manages to establish its high-powered passing game early, it may be a long night for the Longhorns.
| Team | Record | Points Scored in playoffs | Key Player | Home Field Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | 12-1 | 83 | Will Howard (QB) | No |
| Texas | 11-2 | 39 | Gunnar Helm (TE) | Yes |
As fans gear up for the big game, they’re not just hungry for a victory but also for the thrilling spectacle that college football always brings. Florence and the Machine might play on the radio as you walk through the stadium, and the smell of popcorn and roast peanuts fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re cheering for the Buckeyes or the Longhorns, this Cotton Bowl promises to deliver an unforgettable night packed with football action.
