As college football fans gear up for one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, the Cotton Bowl on January 10, 2025, promises to deliver an electrifying showdown between the 5-seed Texas Longhorns and the 8-seed Ohio State Buckeyes. With a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship at stake, this game is expected to be a nail-biter!

Game Preview

Ohio State has experienced a rollercoaster season, losing two games during the regular season. However, they have turned the tide in the playoffs, showcasing dominance by demolishing Tennessee by 25 points in the first round and convincingly defeating undefeated 1-seed Oregon 41-21 in the semifinals. The Buckeyes have shown they are a force to be reckoned with as they look to make a deep playoff run.

On the flip side, Texas has had its share of challenges yet displayed grit and resilience throughout their playoff journey. They narrowly defeated the 12-seed Clemson before enduring an intense battle against 4-seed Arizona State, which went into double overtime. This resilience makes them a formidable opponent for Ohio State.

Historical Context

Historically, the rivalry between Texas and Ohio State is intriguing, as they have clashed only three times. Remarkably, all three encounters have featured teams that progressed to national championship games that same year. The last meeting saw Texas edge out Ohio State 24-21 in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, led by standout receiver Quan Cosby, who accounted for 171 yards and two touchdowns.

How to Watch the Cotton Bowl Live

- **Date:** Friday, Jan. 10 - **Time:** 7:30 p.m. ET - **Location:** AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas - **TV:** ESPN | Live Stream: Fubo (Free Trial Available)

Key Matchups to Watch

**Wide Receiver Showdown:** Look out for Ohio State's freshman sensation, Jeremiah Smith, who has been on fire. As the first No. 1 overall receiver recruit since 2012, Smith has already made headlines with 13 catches for a staggering 290 yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs. Texas boasts one of the best secondaries in the nation, led by Thorpe Award winner Jahdae Barron, but they have yet to face a talent like Smith, which sets the stage for a thrilling matchup.

**Defensive Battle:** While the game features high-powered offenses, don't overlook the elite defenses of both squads. Texas and Ohio State rank in the top-three nationally in total defense, yards allowed per play, and passing defense, with both also placing high in scoring defense. Fans can expect a hard-fought contest where every yard counts.

**The Rushing Game Dilemma:** The Texas offense heavily relies on its running game, averaging 4.8 yards per carry in their victories. However, their two losses show an alarming drop to just 1.1 yards per carry. To complicate matters, they struggled against Arizona State's defense, managing only 53 yards on 30 carries. Meanwhile, Ohio State has proved its ability to stifle effective rushing attacks, having held Oregon to a shocking -23 yards on the ground. This could spell trouble for the Longhorns if they can't establish a successful rushing attack.

Prediction

The stage is set for an unforgettable matchup in the Cotton Bowl. While Texas has proven its prowess, Ohio State's recent performances suggest they are firing on all cylinders. If the Buckeyes sustain their momentum and dynamic play, they are likely to emerge victorious in what is expected to be a clash of two elite defenses. Nevertheless, expect a competitive battle until the final whistle.

**Pick:** Ohio State -5.5

Make sure you don’t miss this thrilling semifinal, as it promises to be a highlight of the college football season! Who do you think will claim victory and advance to the national championship?