The 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to feature a thrilling semifinal matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl. The stakes could not be higher, as the winner will advance to the CFP national championship on January 20, where they will face the victor of Thursday’s semifinal between Penn State and Notre Dame.
Both teams come into the game with impressive victories in their respective quarterfinal matchups. Texas is coming off a dramatic 39-31 double-overtime victory over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl, while Ohio State dominated Oregon in the Rose Bowl, winning 41-21 after jumping to an early 34-0 lead. This Cotton Bowl semifinal is set to be a clash of two of college football’s most storied programs, both with eyes firmly set on a national title.
Key Matchup: Texas Longhorns vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET, Friday
Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Broadcast: ESPN
The Road to the Cotton Bowl: Texas Longhorns
Texas has made its way to the Cotton Bowl following a thrilling double-overtime victory over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. The Longhorns’ victory was hard-fought, and their resilience was on full display as they overcame a tough Arizona State team that threatened to pull off an upset. Quarterback Quinn Ewers played a pivotal role in the win, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing a rushing touchdown to seal the victory. His leadership will be crucial against Ohio State’s high-powered defense.
Texas’ offensive success has been driven by a balanced attack that includes a potent passing game, led by Ewers, and a strong running game. Running back Bijan Robinson has been a key contributor to the offense all season, and his ability to gain yards on the ground will be crucial in keeping Ohio State’s defense honest. Additionally, Texas’ receiving corps, featuring players like Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington, can stretch the field and open up opportunities for big plays.
On the defensive side, Texas is one of the most stingy defenses in the country, allowing just 14.5 points per game. Linebackers like Jalen Ford and defensive linemen such as T’Vondre Sweat have been dominant throughout the season. Texas’ defense will need to contain Ohio State’s explosive offense, particularly its dynamic quarterback, C.J. Stroud, and star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
The Road to the Cotton Bowl: Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State enters this semifinal matchup as one of the most complete teams in the nation. After suffering a disappointing loss to Michigan in the regular season finale, the Buckeyes quickly bounced back with a dominant performance against Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Ohio State’s 41-21 victory was a statement game, showcasing the team’s ability to put together a complete performance on both sides of the ball.
Offensively, Ohio State has one of the most explosive units in college football, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud has been nearly flawless this season, showcasing his ability to make precise throws under pressure and spread the ball around to multiple playmakers. He will be joined by standout wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who has been one of the top pass-catchers in the nation this season. Ohio State’s rushing attack, led by TreVeyon Henderson, is also a key element of their offensive game plan, and Henderson’s ability to break off long runs will be a critical factor in the game.
Ohio State’s defense, which ranks first in the nation in points allowed, is arguably one of the best in the country. The Buckeyes have allowed just 12.1 points per game this season, and their defensive line is filled with future NFL talent. Defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, linebacker Cody Simon, and cornerback Denzel Burke have all been key contributors to Ohio State’s dominant defense. Against a potent Texas offense, Ohio State’s defense will need to maintain its discipline and ensure that they don’t give up big plays.
Betting Odds and Analysis
As of now, Ohio State is favored by 6 points in the matchup, with the moneyline set at Ohio State -230 and Texas +195. The over/under for total points is set at 53.5, indicating that the oddsmakers expect a somewhat high-scoring game. Both teams are capable of putting up points in bunches, but the game may ultimately come down to which defense can step up and make stops in critical situations.
The Buckeyes’ defense will likely have the advantage in this matchup, but Texas’ defense has shown it can be just as disruptive. With both teams featuring explosive offenses and strong defensive units, the game is expected to be close and competitive throughout.
History Between Texas and Ohio State
Although this is the first meeting between Texas and Ohio State since the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, the history between the two teams is rich. Texas holds a 2-1 all-time series lead over Ohio State, with the most recent matchup being a 24-21 victory for the Longhorns in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, which capped a 12-1 season for Texas under former head coach Mack Brown. The two teams also met in a home-and-home series in 2005 and 2006, with Texas winning 25-22 in Ohio State on Sept. 10, 2005, and Ohio State securing a 24-7 victory at Texas in 2006.
Despite the history between the two programs, this game will be the most significant meeting to date, as both teams have national championship aspirations. Texas is looking to reach the national title game for the first time since it lost to Alabama in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game, and Ohio State is hoping to return to the top of college football for the first time since 2014.
What to Expect in the Game
Expect a fast-paced, high-energy game with plenty of explosive plays on both sides. Both Texas and Ohio State have the weapons to score quickly, and both defenses have been outstanding throughout the season. However, this game will likely be decided by which team can execute better in the red zone and make key stops on defense.
For Texas, Ewers will need to continue his strong play, while Robinson will need to be a key factor in the running game. For Ohio State, Stroud will need to maintain his composure and get the ball to his playmakers, particularly Harrison and Henderson. Additionally, the Buckeyes’ defense will need to pressure Ewers and contain Texas’ big-play capabilities.
Conclusion
The Cotton Bowl semifinal between Texas and Ohio State promises to be an exciting, high-stakes game that could go down to the wire. Both teams have the talent to compete for the national championship, and this game will serve as the ultimate test to see who is worthy of a spot in the national title game. With both teams having strong offenses and defenses, the game could come down to which team can execute better in key moments. Fans are in for a thrilling matchup with major implications on the line.
