The 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic will be the stage for a high-stakes matchup between two of college football’s elite programs, as the Ohio State Buckeyes face the Texas Longhorns in the College Football Playoff semifinals. Both teams enter the game with impressive résumés, having shown resilience and skill throughout their respective seasons. This game promises to be an exciting clash of titans, with both teams aiming to advance to the national championship game.
Ohio State’s Resurgence After Michigan Defeat
Ohio State entered the 2025 season as one of the favorites to compete for the national title, and despite suffering a surprising loss to Michigan in the regular season finale, the Buckeyes have demonstrated their ability to rebound in dominant fashion. Their performance in the Rose Bowl was nothing short of spectacular. Ohio State took control of the game early and never looked back, throttling the top-ranked Oregon Ducks 41-21. This win demonstrated the Buckeyes’ defensive prowess and explosive offense, setting the stage for a high-stakes Cotton Bowl showdown.
Ohio State boasts the nation’s top defense, which has been suffocating opposing offenses all season. The Buckeyes are allowing just 12.1 points per game, the lowest in college football. Against Oregon, they held the Ducks to a mere 21 points while limiting their running game to a staggering -23 rushing yards. Linebackers Cody Simon and J.T. Tuimoloau, along with defensive end Jack Sawyer, were pivotal in Ohio State’s defensive dominance, each recording two sacks in the victory over Oregon.
Offensively, Ohio State is as explosive as they come. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was a star in the Rose Bowl, catching seven passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns. Smith’s ability to stretch the field and create big plays will be critical against a Texas defense that prides itself on physicality and disruption. Running back TreVeyon Henderson also played a key role in the victory, rushing for 94 yards and two touchdowns on just eight carries. Henderson is averaging 7.3 yards per carry this season, making him one of the most dangerous running backs in the country.
Texas’ Gritty Performance in Peach Bowl
On the other side, the Texas Longhorns come into the Cotton Bowl with a hard-fought victory over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. The game was a rollercoaster ride for Texas, who appeared to be cruising to victory with a 17-3 halftime lead, only to see Arizona State rally in the second half and force the game into overtime. Despite giving up a lead, Texas showed tremendous resilience, eventually prevailing 39-31.
Quarterback Quinn Ewers was stellar in the Peach Bowl, completing 20 of 30 passes for 322 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing touchdown, showcasing his versatility and ability to perform under pressure. Ewers’ favorite target in the game was wide receiver Matthew Golden, who had a breakout performance with seven receptions for 149 yards and a touchdown. Golden is averaging a remarkable 16.7 yards per reception this season, and he has consistently been a deep threat for the Longhorns. He will be a key player to watch against Ohio State’s defense, which has shown vulnerability in the past against explosive passing attacks.
Texas also features a defense that has been formidable all season long. The Longhorns are giving up just 14.5 points per game, ranking third in the nation. This defense is anchored by a disruptive front that includes linebacker Colin Simmons, who leads the team with 9.0 sacks, and Trey Moore, who has had at least one sack in four of his last six games. Texas’ defense will need to continue its strong play against Ohio State’s high-powered offense, with a particular focus on limiting big plays and pressuring quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Key Matchups to Watch
One of the most intriguing aspects of this matchup is the battle between Ohio State’s explosive offense and Texas’ stingy defense. The Buckeyes have shown they can score at will, with Smith, Henderson, and Stroud all capable of making game-changing plays. However, Texas’ defense has been one of the best in the country at stifling opposing offenses, and they will look to make Ohio State earn every yard they get.
Another key matchup will be the play of the quarterbacks. Ewers has shown tremendous growth and poise in his first full season as Texas’ starter, and his performance will be crucial to the Longhorns’ success. If Ewers can continue to play at a high level and connect with Golden downfield, Texas will have a good chance to keep up with Ohio State’s offense. On the other side, Stroud will need to continue his impressive play at quarterback for the Buckeyes. The matchup between these two quarterbacks—both of whom are considered top NFL prospects—will be one of the most exciting aspects of the game.
Texas vs. Ohio State Betting Odds and Predictions
As the College Football Playoff semifinal approaches, Ohio State is favored by 5.5 points in the latest betting odds. The over/under for total points scored in the game is set at 53.5, reflecting expectations of a high-scoring affair. While Ohio State has been the more dominant team throughout the season, Texas has proven to be resilient and capable of winning in difficult circumstances, as evidenced by their Peach Bowl victory.
SportsLine’s expert Eric Cohen, host of the Early Edge College Football Picks Show, has been successful in his college football predictions this season, boasting a 75-55 record. Cohen is leaning towards the Under on the total points scored and has identified a critical X-factor that could sway the game in one team’s favor.
Why Ohio State Can Cover
Ohio State enters the game as the favorite, and for good reason. Their defense is the best in the nation, and they have a plethora of playmakers on offense capable of putting up big numbers. If the Buckeyes can continue to stifle Texas’ offense and get big performances from Smith, Henderson, and Stroud, they should have a strong chance to cover the spread and advance to the national championship.
Why Texas Can Cover
Texas, however, is more than capable of keeping the game close and potentially pulling off the upset. The Longhorns have a balanced offensive attack led by Ewers, who has shown the ability to make plays in crucial moments. Additionally, their defense is one of the best in the country, and if they can contain Ohio State’s playmakers and disrupt Stroud, they could have a shot at pulling off the upset.
Conclusion
The 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic promises to be a thrilling contest between two of college football’s most storied programs. Ohio State comes into the game as the favorite, but Texas has the talent and resilience to make this a competitive game. With both teams possessing high-powered offenses and strong defenses, this game is poised to be a classic. Whether Texas can keep up with Ohio State’s playmakers or if the Buckeyes’ defense can stifle the Longhorns’ attack will determine the outcome. Fans and bettors alike will be watching eagerly to see which team advances to the national championship.