The outcome of a single play can dramatically alter the course of a season, and that’s exactly what happened in the thrilling 2025 College Football Playoff. With a ticket to the championship game on the line, the Texas Longhorns found themselves in a precarious situation against Ohio State. Trailing by seven points, they faced a crucial fourth-and-goal at the Buckeyes’ eight-yard line. A touchdown could have tied the game, or even given Texas the lead with a two-point conversion attempt. The stakes couldn’t have been higher.
Jack Sawyer, a defensive standout for Ohio State, made a play that will be remembered for years to come. As Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers attempted to make a crucial pass, Sawyer burst through the line, knocking Ewers to the ground and forcing a fumble. What happened next was nothing short of spectacular: Sawyer scooped up the loose ball and sprinted 83 yards down the sideline for a touchdown, effectively sealing Ohio State’s victory in the Cotton Bowl.
Ohio State’s path to the national championship
Following Sawyer’s electrifying scoop-and-score, Ohio State secured a spot in the national championship game against Notre Dame. The Buckeyes’ defense, led by Sawyer, has been a formidable force throughout the season, and this game was no exception. With the win, Ohio State not only advanced in the playoffs but also showcased their resilience and skill on the biggest stage.
The matchup remained tight as the clock wound down. With just seven minutes left in the game, Ohio State took a 21-14 lead thanks to a touchdown from Quinshon Judkins. This put Texas in a position where they needed to respond quickly. Ewers led the Longhorns on a determined drive, pushing them to the Buckeyes’ 1-yard line, thanks to a series of penalties. However, Ohio State’s defense held strong, setting the stage for the dramatic final play.
Jack Sawyer’s game-changing moment
As the pressure mounted, Sawyer stepped up at just the right moment. He deftly maneuvered past his blocker and zeroed in on Ewers, who was unaware of the impending danger. With a powerful shove, Sawyer knocked Ewers down, dislodging the football in the process. The moment was a game-changer, one that would define the outcome of the Cotton Bowl.
When asked about his thoughts as he sprinted toward the end zone, Sawyer humorously replied, “Sh—, I guess it’s, ‘Don’t fall like Will (Howard) did,'” referencing a stumble by his own quarterback earlier in the game. The lightheartedness of the moment contrasted sharply with the high stakes of the game, showcasing Sawyer’s ability to stay composed under pressure.
A moment of respect between friends
In an interesting twist, Sawyer and Ewers share a personal history; they were former roommates during Ewers’ time at Ohio State. After the play, the two exchanged a moment of mutual respect. Ewers, who had just been on the receiving end of Sawyer’s game-defining play, walked off the field and jokingly said, “Screw you,” followed by laughter. Sawyer reflected on their friendship, saying, “That’s my boy. Obviously, we were roommates when he was here. Got a lot of respect for him and the rest of the Texas team.”
Sawyer’s touchdown extended Ohio State’s lead to 28-14, leaving little time for Texas to mount a comeback. The Buckeyes’ head coach, Ryan Day, celebrated the moment with Sawyer, jumping into his arms as the clock ticked down. This was not just a victory for the team; it was a testament to their hard work and determination throughout the season.
Jack Sawyer’s NFL prospects
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Sawyer’s performance in the Cotton Bowl is likely to have significant implications for his future. He has consistently improved his single-season sack total during his four years at Ohio State, showcasing his development as a pass rusher. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 260 pounds, Sawyer possesses the physical attributes that NFL scouts covet.
Currently, Sawyer is projected to be a high draft pick. In recent rankings, he is listed as the No. 31 overall prospect and No. 4 among edge rushers. The consensus among analysts suggests he could be selected in the second round, but his standout performance in the playoffs could elevate his stock even further. If he continues to shine in the national championship, it’s not out of the question that he could find himself in the first round come draft day.
Looking ahead to the national championship
With the national championship game on the horizon, all eyes will be on Jack Sawyer and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Can they carry the momentum from their Cotton Bowl victory into the championship? The stakes are high, and Sawyer’s ability to perform under pressure will be crucial. If he can replicate his Cotton Bowl heroics, NFL teams will undoubtedly take notice, and his draft stock could soar.
As the excitement builds for the championship game, one thing is clear: Jack Sawyer has made a name for himself in college football. His journey from Ohio State to the NFL is just beginning, and fans will be eager to see what the future holds for this talented edge rusher. Will he continue to rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the world of college football is watching closely.
