Cotton Bowl 2025: Ohio State vs. Texas – Date, Kickoff, Tickets, TV Channel, and All Details

The Cotton Bowl is one of the most iconic and anticipated college football bowl games, and the 2025 edition promises to be an exciting showdown. Ohio State and Texas, two of the most storied programs in NCAA football history, are set to meet in this prestigious postseason matchup. As the 2025 Cotton Bowl approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting what will undoubtedly be an action-packed game featuring two powerhouse teams. In this article, we will break down all the essential details surrounding the game, including the date, kickoff time, ticket information, TV channels, and much more.

The Cotton Bowl: A Legacy of Excellence

The Cotton Bowl Classic is one of the oldest bowl games in the United States. First played in 1937, it has served as a stage for some of the best college football teams in the country. Historically, it has been played in Dallas, Texas, at the AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Known for its exciting matchups, the Cotton Bowl has hosted legendary teams and players, making it one of the most coveted invitations during the bowl season.

The 2025 edition is set to be another epic chapter in the history of the bowl game. This year’s matchup between Ohio State and Texas is particularly exciting because both teams have rich traditions and passionate fan bases. For Ohio State, the Cotton Bowl presents an opportunity to add another milestone to their illustrious history, while for Texas, it marks an important moment to showcase the return of the program to national prominence.

Date and Kickoff Time

The 2025 Cotton Bowl will take place on December 31, 2025. This is a highly anticipated date for college football fans as the game will be part of the New Year’s Eve bowl extravaganza, which includes several other significant games. The exact kickoff time has not yet been confirmed but is expected to be in the early evening, likely starting around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM Eastern Time. Fans can expect a thrilling atmosphere as the game will be broadcast to a national audience, and the energy in the stadium will be electrifying.

Ohio State Buckeyes: Season Overview

The Ohio State Buckeyes are one of the premier programs in college football, and their presence in the Cotton Bowl only strengthens the game’s appeal. The Buckeyes, based in Columbus, Ohio, have a tradition of excellence, with multiple national championships and conference titles under their belt. The 2025 season has seen Ohio State continue to perform at a high level, led by head coach Ryan Day, who has been instrumental in keeping the Buckeyes among the nation’s elite.

As of the 2025 regular season, Ohio State has shown its strength in all facets of the game. The team boasts a high-powered offense, led by a talented quarterback and playmakers across the field. The Buckeyes have always been known for their physical, fast-paced style of play, and this year is no different. Their defense has been stout, making it difficult for opponents to get consistent yardage. With a talented roster and a head coach focused on maintaining the program’s standard of excellence, Ohio State is poised to make a run at the Cotton Bowl title.

Key players to watch for Ohio State include:

Quarterback (TBD): Ohio State’s quarterback situation is expected to be one of the most exciting storylines leading into the Cotton Bowl. The Buckeyes typically produce elite quarterbacks, and whoever leads the team in this game will have big shoes to fill.
Wide Receiver (TBD): The Buckeyes are known for producing dynamic wide receivers, and in 2025, the receiving corps has lived up to that reputation.
Defensive Line: Ohio State’s defensive front will look to impose its will, bringing pressure on the quarterback and shutting down Texas’ offense.

Texas Longhorns: Season Overview

The Texas Longhorns, based in Austin, Texas, are another team with a rich history and a proud tradition in college football. After a few years of rebuilding, the Longhorns are back in contention for major bowl games, and their appearance in the 2025 Cotton Bowl represents a significant moment for the program. Head coach Steve Sarkisian, who took over the program in 2021, has guided the team back to relevance in college football.

Texas has made impressive strides in recent years, and their 2025 season is no exception. The Longhorns are led by a talented roster that features star players on both offense and defense. The offensive line has been solid, providing the team’s skill players with the protection they need to execute their game plans. Texas’ defense, which has been one of the team’s strengths in 2025, will look to stifle Ohio State’s explosive offense. With their strong season and desire to prove their place among the nation’s elite, Texas will be ready to take on Ohio State in what is sure to be an unforgettable game.

Key players to watch for Texas include:

Quarterback Quinn Ewers: The Longhorns’ young quarterback has been one of the most exciting prospects in college football. By the time the Cotton Bowl arrives, Ewers will be looking to lead his team to victory with his arm and his decision-making ability.
Running Back Bijan Robinson: If he returns for the Cotton Bowl, Robinson is one of the most electrifying running backs in the nation. His combination of power and speed makes him a constant threat on the ground.
Linebacker Jalen Ford: Ford has been a defensive standout for the Longhorns and will be key in helping Texas contain Ohio State’s high-octane offense.

Tickets: How to Get Yours

The Cotton Bowl, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, has a seating capacity of over 80,000, providing plenty of room for fans of both Ohio State and Texas. However, given the significance of this game, tickets are expected to sell quickly, so it’s essential for fans to act fast if they want to attend in person.

Tickets for the Cotton Bowl can be purchased through the official bowl website, as well as through various ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster. Prices will vary depending on the seating section, with premium areas like suites and club seats costing more than general seating. It’s also common for travel packages to be available for those coming from out of town, which include tickets, hotel accommodations, and transportation.

In addition to purchasing tickets directly from official sources, fans can also check with Ohio State and Texas alumni associations, as they may offer packages and exclusive deals for supporters of both teams.

TV Channel and Streaming Information

For those unable to attend the Cotton Bowl in person, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN. As one of the top sports networks, ESPN will provide extensive coverage of the game, with pre-game analysis, live commentary, and post-game coverage. The broadcast will feature expert analysis, player highlights, and interviews with coaches and players, offering a complete viewing experience.

Additionally, for fans who prefer to watch the game on their mobile devices or computers, ESPN will also offer a streaming option via the ESPN app or website. This means that fans can tune in from anywhere and catch every moment of the action, no matter where they are.

The Road to the Cotton Bowl

Both Ohio State and Texas have earned their spot in the 2025 Cotton Bowl through strong regular-season performances, finishing among the top teams in their respective conferences. The Big Ten and Big 12 are home to some of the most competitive programs in college football, and both Ohio State and Texas were able to stand out in their respective leagues to secure a spot in this prestigious bowl game.

Ohio State finished the regular season with a dominant record, and their impressive performance in the Big Ten Championship further solidified their place in the Cotton Bowl. Meanwhile, Texas, led by Coach Sarkisian, rebounded from years of inconsistency to finish the season on a high note, making them deserving of a prestigious bowl invite. Their success in the Big 12, combined with key wins, sets the stage for an exciting showdown with Ohio State.