Excitement is building as college football fans gear up for one of the most thrilling matchups of the season. On January 10th, Ohio State will clash with Texas in the Cotton Bowl, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at the impressive AT&T Stadium in Arlington. This game is not just another bowl game; it’s a crucial semifinal in the College Football Playoff that could lead to a shot at the National Championship title.
Whoever wins the Cotton Bowl on Friday night will be the favorite to win the College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 20.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The winning team from this contest will advance to face their next opponent in the championship game on January 20th. Buckeyes and Longhorns fans are crossing their fingers and hoping their team shines in this critical moment.
How these teams got here
Ohio State comes into the game with an impressive playoff history. They have dominated their rivals in past playoff rounds, boasting a combined score of 83-38. Quarterback Will Howard has been a standout player, managing to throw over 300 yards in each of these games. This consistency makes Ohio State a formidable opponent.
On the other hand, Texas has shown resilience. They faced a tough challenge against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl but bounced back from a fourth-quarter deficit to secure a victory, making them one of the teams to watch. Quarterback Quinn Ewers had a fantastic performance in that game, throwing for 322 yards and four touchdowns, and will now face Ohio State, his former team.
How the QBs stack up
Both quarterbacks are pivotal to their teams’ success. Will Howard’s ability to pass effectively has been crucial for Ohio State, while Ewers will be looking to capitalize on his experience from earlier in the season to guide Texas. With each player having something to prove, fans can expect an electrifying battle on the field.
Texas’ home-field advantage … and the weather
Though the Cotton Bowl is technically a neutral site, many fans point out that playing in Texas could give the Longhorns a home-field advantage. However, there’s a twist this time! Reports suggest that a winter storm could impact game conditions. While organizers assure fans that the game will go on as planned, everyone is hoping for clear skies so that both teams can showcase their skills without the weather getting in the way.
Players to watch
When it comes to key players, both teams have stars to keep an eye on. For Ohio State, running back TreVeyon Henderson has had an outstanding season, rushing for 925 yards and scoring 8 touchdowns, demonstrating that he can help put points on the board. Texas’ tight end, Gunnar Helm, is also someone to watch, leading the team with 58 receptions, 744 yards, and 7 touchdowns. Both players will be vital in pushing their teams toward victory.
Key to the game
A critical aspect of the game will be Texas’s pass defense, which has faced challenges in previous matchups. As they prepare to defend against Ohio State’s potent passing attack, they’ll need to step up to avoid missed tackles and breakdowns that could allow the Buckeyes to score. It’ll be interesting to see how each defense approaches this game and whether they can hold up against their opponent’s strengths.
Table of key stats
| Team | Passing Yards (Avg.) | Rushing Yards (Avg.) | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | 300+ | 200+ | 3+ |
| Texas | 280+ | 180+ | 4+ |
This matchup promises to be an unforgettable showdown as both teams bring their A-game to the Cotton Bowl. With talented players, strategic gameplay, and the championship dream on the line, fans are in for a real treat. The excitement is palpable as everyone eagerly anticipates January 10th, where Ohio State and Texas will put everything on the line for college football glory.
