The College Football Playoff (CFP) season is always filled with excitement, and the matchup between Ohio State and Texas in the 2025 edition promises to be one of the most thrilling games of the year. With both programs boasting elite talent, a rich history, and high expectations, this game has all the ingredients for a memorable battle. Let’s dive deep into the prediction, updated odds, expert choices, quarterback matchups, and team statistics to offer a comprehensive preview of this much-anticipated game.
The Stage is Set
The College Football Playoff brings together the best teams in the nation, and in 2025, Ohio State and Texas are among the top contenders. Ohio State, led by Ryan Day, has been a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten, while Texas, under Steve Sarkisian, has returned to national prominence after a few years of rebuilding. Both teams are loaded with talent across the field, but much of the focus will be on their respective quarterbacks, who have the potential to change the course of the game.
Updated Odds
As of the latest betting odds, the game between Ohio State and Texas is expected to be a closely contested battle. Ohio State is typically favored in most matchups due to their consistent success in the CFP and their powerful roster. However, Texas has been playing exceptional football in 2025 and is likely to be seen as a strong challenger. The odds, as of now, have Ohio State as a slight favorite, but the line is expected to fluctuate based on final injury reports and player performances leading up to the game.
The point spread could be around Ohio State -3 to -5, meaning that Texas will be given respect by oddsmakers and has the potential to cover the spread in a tightly contested game. The over/under total for points is likely to hover in the range of 60–65, considering both teams’ potent offenses.
Expert Predictions
1. Ohio State’s Strengths
Ohio State has long been a dominant force in college football, and 2025 is no different. The Buckeyes enter this game with one of the most well-rounded rosters in the country. From their elite recruiting classes to their experienced coaching staff, Ohio State has all the tools to win a national title.
- Defensive Dominance: Ohio State’s defense has been the backbone of their success in 2025. With a fierce pass rush led by standout edge rusher J.T. Tuimoloau, the Buckeyes are capable of putting immense pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Their secondary, featuring All-American cornerback Denzel Burke, can lock down wide receivers, making it difficult for opposing teams to sustain drives.
- Running Game: Ohio State’s offense features a dynamic ground game with a combination of speed and power. Running backs like TreVeyon Henderson have been explosive in 2025, and the offensive line has done a great job of creating lanes. In the face of a strong Texas defense, Ohio State’s ability to control the game on the ground will be crucial.
2. Texas’s Strengths
Texas, led by Steve Sarkisian, is one of the most dangerous teams in the country this season. The Longhorns have made significant strides over the past few years and look primed for a CFP run.
- Quinn Ewers’ Growth: Quarterback Quinn Ewers has had a breakout season in 2025. He has developed into one of the most potent quarterbacks in college football, and his ability to make every throw on the field will be critical for Texas to keep pace with Ohio State. Ewers has shown an impressive ability to stretch the field with his arm strength and precision, and his connection with wide receiver Xavier Worthy will be a matchup to watch.
- Balanced Offense: Texas has an extremely balanced offense with a mix of power running and explosive passing. Running back Bijan Robinson is a game-changer and has proven that he can dominate on the ground, while the wide receiver corps, including Worthy and Jordan Whittington, can stretch defenses vertically. With such a versatile offense, Texas will be hard to predict and difficult to stop.
Quarterback Matchup: Quinn Ewers vs. Kyle McCord
The quarterback matchup in this game will be one of the most closely watched battles. Both Quinn Ewers of Texas and Kyle McCord of Ohio State have played exceptional football in 2025, and their performance will likely determine the outcome of the game.
1. Quinn Ewers (Texas)
Ewers has had a strong season in 2025, showcasing why he was one of the top recruits in recent memory. Ewers has the size, arm strength, and poise in the pocket to make plays against even the toughest defenses. His development throughout the year has been a key reason for Texas’ resurgence, and he has formed a special connection with his wide receivers.
- Strengths: Ewers is a natural leader with great composure in big games. His deep ball accuracy and ability to read defenses have been a huge asset for Texas this season. He is also very effective when moving outside the pocket, allowing him to keep plays alive and make big throws downfield.
- Weaknesses: Ewers has struggled with some inconsistencies, especially when pressured. Against a talented Ohio State defense, he will need to maintain his poise and avoid forcing throws into tight coverage.
2. Kyle McCord (Ohio State)
Kyle McCord has been solid under center for Ohio State in 2025, guiding the offense with confidence and precision. McCord is not known for being as flashy as Ewers but has proven to be incredibly efficient. His ability to make quick decisions and take what the defense gives him will be key in this game.
- Strengths: McCord is a cerebral quarterback who can make all the necessary throws. He excels in the short and intermediate passing game, moving the ball methodically down the field. His chemistry with Ohio State’s wide receivers, including Marvin Harrison Jr., gives him a reliable passing attack.
- Weaknesses: McCord has shown moments of vulnerability when facing intense pressure. Against a defense like Texas, which boasts playmakers across the front seven, McCord will need to handle pressure and avoid making costly mistakes.
Key Statistics to Watch
- Total Offense: Ohio State has averaged over 500 yards per game in 2025, with a balanced attack between rushing and passing. Texas, on the other hand, is slightly more pass-heavy but has still been efficient in both aspects, averaging just under 450 yards per game.
- Turnover Margin: Turnovers will be a crucial factor in this game. Both teams have been solid at creating turnovers, and the team that wins the turnover battle will likely have the upper hand.
- Red Zone Efficiency: Both teams are highly efficient in the red zone, converting over 85% of their trips inside the 20-yard line into touchdowns. The team that can consistently score in the red zone and avoid field goal attempts will have a significant advantage.
- Third Down Conversions: Ohio State has been effective at converting third downs at a rate of 45%, while Texas has been even better, sitting at just over 50%. The ability to sustain drives and keep the opposing offense off the field will be critical for both teams.
Prediction: Ohio State 34, Texas 30
This game is expected to be a high-scoring, back-and-forth affair. Ohio State’s defense will create pressure on Quinn Ewers, but the Longhorns’ offense will be able to counter with explosive plays from Ewers and Robinson. Ohio State’s ability to establish the run with Henderson, combined with McCord’s efficient passing attack, will prove to be too much for Texas’ defense. However, Texas will not go down without a fight, and the game will come down to the final few minutes.
While both teams have the talent to win, Ohio State’s experience in the CFP and overall depth will give them the slight edge. The Buckeyes’ defense will make just enough stops in the final moments to secure the victory, setting up a date in the national championship game.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 College Football Playoff matchup between Ohio State and Texas is shaping up to be one of the most exciting games of the season. Both teams have the talent to make a run at the national title, and this game will showcase the future of college football with two young quarterbacks playing at an elite level. Whether it’s McCord’s efficiency or Ewers’ arm strength, both players will have a major say in the outcome. In a game this close, it could come down to one big play, and Ohio State’s experience in high-stakes games gives them a slight advantage. However, Texas is primed to make a statement, and they certainly have the firepower to pull off the upset. This promises to be an unforgettable College Football Playoff matchup.
