Ohio State vs. Texas: A Clash of Two Elite Programs
The 2024 College Football Playoff is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing postseason tournaments in recent memory, with a showdown between two powerhouse programs: Ohio State (11-2) and Texas (13-2). Each team enters the playoff with impressive credentials and high expectations, despite some bumps along the way. For Ohio State, a devastating loss to their archrivals, Michigan, still stings, but the Buckeyes’ larger goal of securing a National Championship remains intact. For Texas, a long-awaited return to the postseason culminates in their first trip to the Playoff since 2009, where they hope to finally capture that elusive national title after an up-and-down campaign.
Both teams feature high-powered offenses, but it’s their defenses that have stood out as the cornerstones of their success. Ohio State boasts an elite defense under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, while Texas, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, has developed a top-flight defense that complements their explosive offense. In this matchup, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths while mitigating weaknesses in a high-stakes contest that could determine the 2024 National Champion.
Ohio State: A Juggernaut Offense and Elite Defense
Ohio State enters the College Football Playoff as one of the most complete teams in the country, with a devastating offense and a defense that ranks as the best in the nation. Despite suffering a heart-wrenching defeat to Michigan in the regular season, the Buckeyes have rebounded with dominant performances in the postseason, including a 42-17 first-round victory over Tennessee and a crushing 5-touchdown opening quarter against Oregon in the Quarterfinals.
Offensive Strengths and Weaknesses
Ohio State’s offense ranks among the top 10 in multiple statistical categories, including success rate, EPA/play (expected points added per play), and marginal efficiency. The Buckeyes have been explosive, scoring early and often against their playoff opponents, especially in their first-round demolition of Tennessee. They opened the game with five consecutive touchdowns of 30 yards or more, demonstrating the potency of their offense and their ability to execute big plays in crucial moments.
However, Ohio State’s offense isn’t without its flaws. The offensive line has struggled at times this season with handling blitzes, ranking 78th nationally with a 9.2% sack rate when extra rushers are sent. This is an area that Texas could look to exploit, especially with their ability to generate pressure and disrupt opposing offenses. The Buckeyes also rank poorly in run blocking, checking in at 94th nationally with a 10.2% blown run block rate. If Texas can create mismatches in the trenches, they could limit Ohio State’s ground game and force them into uncomfortable passing situations.
Elite Defense: The Heart of Ohio State’s Success
Ohio State’s defense is what truly sets them apart in 2024. The Buckeyes are ranked first in FBS in SP+ (a metric that takes into account efficiency, explosiveness, and consistency), and their defensive line has been a nightmare for opposing offenses. With a 43.4% pressure rate and a 9.8% sack rate, Ohio State’s front four ranks near the top of the nation in disrupting quarterbacks and wreaking havoc in the backfield. They’ve been able to generate consistent pressure, forcing teams to rely on short, quick passes to mitigate their pass rush.
The Buckeyes’ secondary, while facing the fifth-fewest deep passes in the country, has been stout when challenged. They rank 3rd in EPA/dropback, meaning they’ve been able to neutralize short-yardage throws and screen passes, preventing offenses from sustaining drives. Despite a 60.1% completion rate allowed (63rd in the nation), the Buckeyes’ defense has shown an ability to limit big plays and force turnovers. Texas will need to be efficient in their passing game, as the Buckeyes’ defense will likely challenge any deep shots and make them work for every yard through the air.
Texas: A Balanced Offense and Opportunistic Defense
Texas has had an exceptional season under Steve Sarkisian, securing a 13-2 record and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2009. The Longhorns’ only blemish came in a heartbreaking 22-19 loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship, a game that had championship implications. While they didn’t get their revenge on the Bulldogs, Texas bounced back with dominant wins over Clemson and Arizona State to advance to the semifinals.
Offensive Firepower: A Run Game to Be Reckoned With
The Longhorns’ offense has been one of the most efficient in the country this season. They rank 8th in SP+, thanks to a potent run game and a vertical passing attack that has kept defenses on their heels. In their first-round playoff victory against Clemson, Texas ran for 292 yards and averaged 6.1 yards per carry, overpowering the Tigers’ defensive front. Against a typically stout defensive unit like Clemson’s, this was an impressive showing that highlighted the Longhorns’ ability to control the line of scrimmage and dominate in the trenches.
Texas’ rushing success rate (13th) and explosive play rate (3rd at 9.6%) make them one of the most dangerous teams when it comes to generating big plays. Running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson have been key contributors to Texas’ success, helping keep opposing defenses on their heels. Ohio State’s defense will face a tough test in containing Texas’ rushing attack, which will likely be a key focus for the Buckeyes’ defense.
Texas’ Defense: A Lockdown Secondary
Texas’ defense is equally impressive, especially in the secondary. The Longhorns have one of the best pass defenses in the country, ranking first in yards per dropback allowed (4.1 yards) and third in interception rate (5.2%). Their ability to shut down passing attacks has been one of the cornerstones of their success, and they will need to be at their best when facing Ohio State’s explosive offense.
In addition to their secondary, Texas’ pass rush has been effective, ranking sixth in FBS with an 8.8% sack rate. Defensive linemen like Keondre Coburn have been able to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt the pocket. If they can generate consistent pressure on Ohio State’s quarterback, they could force the Buckeyes into mistakes and take advantage of any opportunities for turnovers.
Key Matchup: Ohio State’s Pass Rush vs. Texas’ Offensive Line
One of the most important matchups to watch in this game will be Ohio State’s elite pass rush against Texas’ offensive line. The Buckeyes’ defensive front is one of the best in the country at getting after the quarterback, and they will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Longhorns’ blocking schemes. Texas will need to rely on quick throws and efficient play-calling to neutralize Ohio State’s pressure and keep their offense on schedule.
Conclusion: A Clash of Titans
As Ohio State faces off against Texas in the 2024 College Football Playoff, both teams bring elite talent and coaching to the table. The Buckeyes have an offense capable of overwhelming defenses, but their struggles with blitzes and run blocking could provide an opening for the Longhorns. Meanwhile, Texas’ balanced attack and opportunistic defense will provide a stern test for Ohio State, particularly in the secondary.
This game promises to be a battle of contrasting styles, with Ohio State looking to dominate with its explosive offense and elite pass rush, while Texas aims to wear down the Buckeyes with a power running game and a shutdown defense. Both teams are fully capable of winning the National Championship, and the outcome of this matchup will go a long way in determining who advances to the final game. Fans can expect a thrilling contest between two of the best teams in college football.
