Friday night’s Cotton Bowl semifinal was nothing short of thrilling as Ohio State faced off against Texas. The game took a dramatic turn when on a crucial fourth-and-goal, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers was strip-sacked by Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer. Sawyer scooped up the loose ball and dashed 83 yards for a touchdown, sealing a 28-14 victory for the Buckeyes and propelling them into the College Football Playoff national championship.
Ohio State’s Path to Victory
Ohio State’s quarterback, Will Howard, showcased his skills with a solid performance, throwing for 289 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception. However, it was a quiet night for star receiver Jeremiah Smith, who managed just one reception for three yards. In contrast, Carnell Tate stepped up as the leading receiver for the Buckeyes, racking up seven catches for 87 yards. Running back Quinshon Judkins was a key player, scoring two touchdowns and making significant contributions on the ground.
The Buckeyes’ offensive prowess was highlighted by a spectacular 75-yard touchdown reception by TreVeyon Henderson just before halftime, giving Ohio State a critical boost. This play not only shifted momentum but also showcased the Buckeyes’ ability to strike quickly and effectively.
Texas’s Efforts Fall Short
On the other side, Texas fought valiantly. Ewers finished the game with 283 passing yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Running back Jaydon Blue was instrumental in the Longhorns’ scoring efforts, catching five passes for 58 yards and both of Texas’ touchdowns. Despite their efforts, Texas struggled to maintain consistent offensive pressure, particularly in the first half, where they managed only 133 total yards.
As the game progressed, Texas found themselves in a tight battle. After tying the game at 14, the Longhorns seemed poised to take control. However, Ohio State’s defense, led by Sawyer’s game-changing play, proved to be the difference-maker.
Looking Ahead: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
With this victory, Ohio State is set to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the national championship game on January 20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This matchup marks just the ninth meeting between these two storied programs, with Ohio State winning both games in their recent home-and-home series in 2022 and 2023. The Buckeyes are eager to return to the national title stage for the first time since 2020, when they suffered a defeat against Alabama. Can they capture their first national championship since 2014? The anticipation is palpable.
Game Highlights and Key Moments
The Cotton Bowl semifinal was filled with pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Key Plays of the Game
- 10:54 p.m. — TOUCHDOWN: Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer strips Ewers on fourth-and-goal, returning it for an 83-yard touchdown. This was a game-changing moment, shifting the momentum in favor of the Buckeyes.
- 10:44 p.m. — TOUCHDOWN: Quinshon Judkins scores a one-yard touchdown, reclaiming the lead for Ohio State after a strong drive.
- 10:10 p.m. — TOUCHDOWN: Ewers connects with Jaydon Blue for a 26-yard touchdown pass, tying the game at 14.
First Half Analysis
As the first half unfolded, Ohio State established dominance early on. They scored first with a touchdown by Judkins, and despite a strong defensive effort from Texas, the Buckeyes managed to build a 14-7 lead by halftime. Texas struggled offensively, going 1-for-7 on third downs and failing to capitalize on their opportunities.
The halftime stats reflected the struggle for Texas, with just 133 total yards compared to Ohio State’s 236. The Longhorns needed to make adjustments to keep pace with the Buckeyes in the second half.
Second Half Dynamics
The second half began with Ohio State looking to extend their lead, but Texas was determined to respond. After a costly interception by Will Howard, Texas had a chance to capitalize but ultimately could not convert their opportunities into points. Ohio State’s defense tightened, and the Buckeyes managed to regain control of the game.
As the clock wound down, the Buckeyes maintained their composure, executing crucial plays that kept the Longhorns at bay. The final score of 28-14 reflected Ohio State’s ability to perform under pressure and their readiness for the upcoming championship game.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State’s victory in the Cotton Bowl semifinal not only showcased their talent but also highlighted their resilience and strategic execution. As they prepare to face Notre Dame, the Buckeyes will look to build on this momentum and capture their first national title in nearly a decade. Fans are left wondering: can Ohio State reclaim their place atop college football? The excitement is just beginning as the national championship approaches.
