Three Strengths of the Texas Longhorns That Could Help Them Defeat Ohio State in the College Football Playoffs

As the Texas Longhorns prepare to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes in the College Football Playoffs (CFP), they face a formidable opponent with a long and storied history of success. However, Texas possesses several strengths that, if fully leveraged, could give them an edge over Ohio State in this high-stakes matchup. By examining these strengths—offensive efficiency, defensive prowess, and special teams play—we can see how the Longhorns are well-positioned to compete at the highest level.

1. Offensive Efficiency and Versatility

The Texas Longhorns’ offense, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, has become one of the most dynamic and efficient units in college football. With a balanced attack that features both a potent passing game and a strong running game, Texas has the tools to challenge Ohio State’s defense from multiple angles. Here’s a breakdown of how Texas’s offensive efficiency and versatility could be a decisive factor in a CFP victory:

Balanced Offensive Attack

Texas has shown a remarkable ability to balance its passing and running games. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, a rising star for the Longhorns, has demonstrated both arm strength and precision, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His ability to make deep throws down the field and connect on short to intermediate routes has been crucial for Texas’s offensive success. With talented wide receivers like Xavier Worthy, Jordan Whittington, and A.D. Mitchell, Ewers has a cadre of playmakers to stretch the field and exploit defensive mismatches.

On the ground, Texas boasts a powerful running game, led by running back Jonathon Brooks, who has been a workhorse for the team all season. The Longhorns’ offensive line, anchored by experienced players like Cole Hutson and DJ Campbell, has opened up lanes for Brooks and other running backs to gain consistent yardage. The combination of a dual-threat quarterback in Ewers and an explosive backfield allows Texas to keep opposing defenses on their toes, forcing them to account for multiple weapons.

Ohio State’s defense, while talented, has had moments of vulnerability throughout the season, particularly when facing versatile offenses that can both run and pass effectively. By exploiting this balance and keeping Ohio State’s defense guessing, Texas can create opportunities to move the ball efficiently down the field. Whether it’s through Ewers’ arm or Brooks’ legs, Texas has the ability to keep the Buckeyes from focusing too much on one aspect of the offense.

Ability to Adapt to Opponent’s Weaknesses

One of the hallmarks of Steve Sarkisian’s coaching is his ability to adapt his offensive game plan based on the strengths and weaknesses of his opponent. Against a team like Ohio State, whose defense is known for its speed and athleticism, Texas could focus on quick passes, screen plays, and run-pass option (RPO) schemes to neutralize the Buckeyes’ pass rush and defensive line pressure. In particular, Ohio State’s defense can sometimes struggle with misdirection and lateral movement, and Texas can exploit this by incorporating jet sweeps, option plays, and creative route combinations to confuse the defense.

Furthermore, Sarkisian’s play-calling is often unpredictable, keeping opposing defensive coordinators off-balance. By mixing up tempo, formations, and personnel groupings, Texas can force Ohio State into uncomfortable situations, creating mismatches across the field. This ability to adapt and adjust in real-time will be a critical factor in a game as high-stakes as the College Football Playoffs.

2. Defensive Prowess and Ability to Pressure the Quarterback

While Texas’s offense has received much of the attention this season, the Longhorns’ defense has also been a major strength, and it’s a unit that could prove to be a difference-maker against Ohio State. The Longhorns have consistently demonstrated the ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and stifle opposing offenses, and their defensive line and linebacker corps are capable of matching up well against the Buckeyes’ high-powered attack.

Pressure on the Quarterback

Ohio State’s offense revolves around quarterback Kyle McCord, who has been solid for the Buckeyes this season. However, McCord is still a relatively inexperienced quarterback who can be rattled under pressure. Texas’s defensive front, featuring standout players like defensive tackle Byron Murphy and edge rusher Baron Sorrell, has the ability to get after the quarterback and disrupt passing lanes. Murphy, in particular, has been a game-changer in the interior, commanding double teams and collapsing pockets, while Sorrell provides edge pressure that can force McCord to make hurried throws or take unnecessary sacks.

The Longhorns’ ability to generate consistent pressure with their front four will be key to slowing down Ohio State’s offense. If Texas can force McCord into uncomfortable situations and make him move off his spot, they will have a greater chance of forcing turnovers, such as interceptions or fumbles, which could swing the momentum in their favor. Additionally, if the Longhorns can disrupt McCord’s timing with his receivers, it will limit the effectiveness of Ohio State’s explosive passing game.

Linebacker Play and Coverage

Texas’s linebacker corps, led by talented players such as Jaylan Ford and Anthony Hill, is another strength that can help neutralize Ohio State’s offensive weapons. The Longhorns’ linebackers are versatile, capable of excelling both in pass coverage and in run defense. Ford, in particular, has been outstanding in coverage this season, making him a key player to watch against Ohio State’s fast-paced, pass-heavy offense.

The ability of Texas’s linebackers to drop into coverage and defend against tight ends and running backs in the passing game will be crucial in containing Ohio State’s offensive weapons. Players like Cade Stover, Ohio State’s standout tight end, and running back Miyan Williams are essential pieces of the Buckeyes’ passing game, and if Texas can limit their effectiveness with smart linebacker play, it will make it difficult for Ohio State to sustain drives.

Additionally, Texas has the ability to make adjustments to its defensive alignments, allowing them to create favorable matchups against Ohio State’s offensive personnel. Whether it’s through zone blitzes, man-to-man coverage, or disguised coverages, Texas’s defense can keep McCord guessing and limit the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm.

3. Special Teams Excellence

In high-stakes games like the College Football Playoffs, special teams can be the difference between victory and defeat. While it’s often overlooked, a team’s ability to excel in the third phase of the game can have a significant impact on the outcome. Texas has shown this season that their special teams units are more than capable of making key contributions when needed most.

Field Position and Kicking Game

One of the key factors in any playoff game is the ability to win the field position battle. Texas’s punting unit, led by Ryan Sanborn, has been excellent this season, consistently pinning opponents deep in their own territory and flipping the field when necessary. By forcing Ohio State to start drives deep in their own territory, Texas can make it more difficult for the Buckeyes to get into a rhythm offensively. A strong punting performance can also give the Texas defense the advantage, allowing them to play more aggressively and take risks without worrying about field position.

In the kicking game, Texas’s placekicker, Bert Auburn, has been reliable in clutch situations. Auburn’s ability to convert field goals, particularly from long range, could prove pivotal in a close game where every point counts. If Texas is able to get into field goal range and convert on critical kicks, it could give them the edge over Ohio State, especially if the game comes down to a final possession or score.

Return Game and Turnovers

In addition to punting and placekicking, Texas has a dangerous return game, with players like Xavier Worthy and DeAndre Moore capable of breaking off explosive returns. A big return in a playoff game can provide a sudden shift in momentum, energizing the team and putting the offense in favorable field position. If Texas can capitalize on a long kick or punt return, it could take some pressure off their offense and potentially set up a short-field scoring opportunity.

Furthermore, special teams are often a breeding ground for turnovers. A blocked punt, a muffed return, or a fumble on a kickoff can dramatically change the flow of the game. Texas’s special teams units are aggressive and opportunistic, and if they can create a turnover in this phase of the game, it could provide a critical swing in momentum.