The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the No. 5 Texas Longhorns prepare to face off against the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl semifinal this Thursday evening. With Ohio State entering the game as six-point favorites, they have demonstrated their prowess in previous semifinal matchups, decisively defeating Tennessee and Oregon. Meanwhile, Texas has shown resilience, battling through double-overtime victories against Clemson and Arizona State in their first two games.
Ohio State’s Path to Victory
If Ohio State can secure a win against Texas, they will advance to compete for a national title on January 21 in Atlanta. But first, they must overcome a formidable Longhorns team that has proven they can thrive under pressure. Will the Buckeyes maintain their dominance, or will Texas pull off an upset?
Ohio State football championship history
Before diving into the current matchup, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on Ohio State’s rich championship history. The Buckeyes have claimed a total of eight national titles, although four of those are shared with other schools. Here’s a closer look at their championship wins, along with the organizations that recognized them:
- 2014: CFP
- 2002: BCS
- 1970, shared with Nebraska, Texas: AP, FWAA, NFF, UPI
- 1968: AP, FWAA, NFF, UPI
- 1961, shared with Alabama: AP, FWAA, NFF, UPI
- 1957, shared with Auburn: FWAA, UPI, AP
- 1954, shared with UCLA: FWAA, UPI, AP
- 1942: AP
In 1970, Ohio State coincidentally shared the title with both Nebraska and Texas. The Cornhuskers were crowned national champions by the Associated Press, despite the fact that both Ohio State and Texas lost their respective bowl games that year. Ohio State fell to Stanford, while Texas lost to Notre Dame.
How many national championships has Ohio State won in football?
The Buckeyes’ championship journey has not been without its controversies. For instance, in 1961, Ohio State was selected as champions by the Football Writers Association of America, while Bear Bryant’s Alabama team was recognized by the AP and UPI. The drama continued as Ohio State’s faculty rejected a Rose Bowl invitation, leading to student protests. Meanwhile, Minnesota took their place and triumphed over UCLA.
The title from 1957 was equally dramatic. Although Auburn was ranked No. 1 in the final AP poll, they were placed on probation and barred from bowl play. Ohio State, finishing 8-1, claimed victory in the Rose Bowl and was recognized as No. 1 by the UPI.
In 1954, Ohio State finished undefeated at 10-0 and beat USC in the Rose Bowl, but UCLA was voted No. 1 overall by other polls. This led to a split in national recognition that year, showcasing the complexities of college football rankings.
When was Ohio State’s last national championship?
Ohio State’s most recent national title came in 2014, during the inaugural season of the four-team college football playoff. That year, they finished as Big Ten champions, dominating Wisconsin 59-0 in the conference title game. With an overall record of 12-1, their only loss was a surprising defeat to Virginia Tech in Week 1.
The national championship game against Oregon was a showcase of Ohio State’s talent. They took a commanding 21-0 lead into halftime and ultimately won 42-20, with running back Ezekiel Elliott shining brightly, racking up 246 yards and four touchdowns.
Ohio State football record in bowl games
Throughout their storied history, the Buckeyes have participated in 48 bowl games, boasting a record of 25-23. If they manage to defeat Texas, they will improve their CFP record to 5-4, including national championship games. This would further solidify their status as one of college football’s elite programs.
As the Cotton Bowl semifinal approaches, excitement is building among fans and players alike. Can Ohio State continue their tradition of excellence and secure a spot in the national championship? Or will Texas rise to the occasion and pull off a stunning upset? One thing is for sure: this game is one you won’t want to miss!
With both teams bringing their A-game, the Cotton Bowl promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with passion, skill, and the relentless pursuit of glory. Buckle up, college football fans—this is going to be a wild ride!
