Why Texas May Upset Ohio State: 3 Longhorns Strengths in the College Football Playoff

The College Football Playoff (CFP) is always a highly anticipated spectacle, and this year’s matchup between Texas and Ohio State has many wonderiTheng if the Longhorns could pull off an upset over the Buckeyes. On paper, Ohio State often seems like the stronger team, with their consistent success and reputation in the playoff, but Texas is no stranger to big games and has several factors that could play a pivotal role in flipping the script. As the two teams prepare for a showdown, here are three key strengths of the Texas Longhorns that could give them the edge over Ohio State in the CFP.

1. Elite Defensive Play: Texas’ Defensive Line and Secondary

One of Texas’ biggest advantages in this matchup is its defensive prowess, which has been a hallmark of their team all season. The Longhorns have one of the best defensive lines in college football, capable of disrupting the opposing offense in a way that can throw even the most high-powered units off their rhythm. This strength could be particularly vital when facing Ohio State’s potent offense, led by quarterback Kyle McCord and a deep receiving corps.

Texas Defensive Line Dominance

The Longhorns’ defensive line has been a terror for opposing offensive lines, with players like Byron Murphy II and T’Vondre Sweat making it incredibly difficult for quarterbacks to settle into a rhythm. Murphy has the quickness and strength to collapse the pocket, while Sweat’s ability to clog up running lanes and create havoc can frustrate opposing offenses. Ohio State, with its high-flying attack, will be tested by this Texas front. The Longhorns are capable of applying pressure on McCord without needing to blitz heavily, allowing their secondary to focus on coverage.

Secondary Depth

While Texas’ front four is elite, their secondary has been equally impressive. Players like Jahdae Barron, Jalen Catalon, and Austin Jordan have played a key role in limiting big plays this season. Ohio State’s offense is known for explosive plays, with its talented wide receivers such as Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka capable of changing the game with one play. Texas’ secondary, however, is deep and athletic enough to not only cover Ohio State’s top receivers but also force McCord into tight throws that could lead to turnovers.

The Buckeyes’ pass-heavy offense relies on timing, precision, and McCord’s ability to make quick decisions under pressure. If Texas can disrupt this rhythm with consistent pass rush and strong coverage, it could lead to an upset. Additionally, the ability to limit explosive plays and force McCord into making mistakes is one of the most effective ways to stifle Ohio State’s attack.

2. Offensive Line Strength and Balanced Attack

While Texas is often recognized for its defense, its offense has quietly been one of the most efficient and versatile in the country this year. The Longhorns have one of the best offensive lines in the nation, a critical factor when facing a team like Ohio State that can bring pressure on the quarterback from multiple angles. If Texas can dominate the line of scrimmage, they’ll have the chance to control the tempo of the game and give their offense the stability needed to make plays.

Powerful Run Game

One of the defining characteristics of Texas’ offense this season has been its ability to run the football. Running backs like Jonathon Brooks and Cedric Baxter Jr. have given the Longhorns a potent ground attack that can wear down opposing defenses and control time of possession. Ohio State has struggled at times to stop the run, especially against power-running teams. Texas’ ability to establish the run will keep Ohio State’s defense on its heels and open up play-action opportunities for the offense.

The Buckeyes’ defense, although talented, has occasionally struggled against dynamic running backs and physical offensive lines. Texas, with its strong offensive line and talented running back corps, can pound the ball and keep Ohio State’s defense guessing. This would also reduce the pressure on Texas’ quarterback, Quinn Ewers, who has shown flashes of brilliance but can be inconsistent at times. A solid run game will help him settle into the game and keep the defense from keying in on his every move.

Play-Action Threat

Once the running game is established, Texas can use play-action to create mismatches downfield. Ewers, while still developing, has the arm talent to make big plays. When the run game is effective, the play-action opens up a whole new dimension for the offense. The Buckeyes’ defense will need to respect both the run and pass, and Texas has the skill players to take advantage of any defensive lapses. Wide receivers like Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell have the speed to get open deep, and their ability to win one-on-one matchups will be crucial if Texas is to pull off the upset.

In contrast to Ohio State’s offensive-heavy approach, Texas’ balanced offensive attack will give them more opportunities to move the ball effectively. When Texas can keep Ohio State’s defense guessing by mixing the run and the pass, they’ll have a better chance of exploiting any weaknesses, particularly in the Buckeyes’ secondary, which has shown vulnerability at times.

3. Quinn Ewers’ Potential to Rise to the Occasion

Quinn Ewers has shown he has the potential to be one of the top quarterbacks in college football, and this game could be his moment to shine on the biggest stage. Though he’s had some inconsistencies throughout the season, Ewers has shown glimpses of brilliance that could make him a game-changer in a high-stakes playoff game. Against Ohio State, he will need to manage the game effectively and limit turnovers while also making the necessary big throws when called upon.

Ewers’ Arm Talent

Ewers possesses one of the strongest arms in college football, capable of making any throw on the field. Against Ohio State, he will need to be precise and decisive, delivering the ball to his talented receiving corps in tight windows. The ability to stretch the field with deep passes or hit tight-window throws in the intermediate range will be crucial for Texas to move the ball effectively against a defense that has been known to pressure the quarterback.

In big games, a quarterback’s ability to handle pressure is key. While Ohio State’s defensive front can bring intense pressure, Ewers has the composure and playmaking ability to deliver under duress. Texas’ offensive line, combined with a strong run game, will give Ewers a clean pocket to work with, and his deep-ball accuracy could be the deciding factor in this game.

Poise Under Pressure

Ewers’ ability to keep his cool in clutch moments is another key to Texas’ success. Quarterbacks who can maintain their composure when the game is on the line often lead their teams to victory in high-pressure situations. Ewers has had several moments this season where he showed his poise and maturity in critical moments, whether it was leading a game-winning drive or delivering a timely touchdown in the red zone. In a tight game against Ohio State, his ability to keep Texas in the hunt and make timely plays will be vital.

Ohio State, on the other hand, has a young quarterback in McCord who has yet to prove himself in such a high-pressure environment. While McCord has played well for the Buckeyes, the experience Ewers brings, coupled with his arm strength, could give Texas the edge in a game that comes down to the wire.