Cotton Bowl Predictions: Does Ohio State or Texas Advance in College Football Playoff?
As the 2024 college football season reaches its thrilling conclusion, the eyes of fans, analysts, and players are fixed on one of the most anticipated bowl games of the year: the Cotton Bowl. This game holds tremendous importance as it represents a pivotal showdown between two of the most storied programs in college football history: Ohio State and Texas. With both teams boasting impressive résumés and significant talent, this Cotton Bowl game is expected to be a battle for the ages, with both teams having their eyes set on advancing to the College Football Playoff (CFP) and ultimately competing for a national title.
For Ohio State, the road to the CFP has been paved with highs and lows, but the Buckeyes have shown enough throughout the season to suggest that they are a legitimate contender. Texas, on the other hand, has enjoyed a resurgence under head coach Steve Sarkisian, and with their own playoff aspirations on the line, they will look to prove they belong among the elite teams in the country. This article will break down the key matchups, individual players to watch, and factors that will determine which team advances in the College Football Playoff: Ohio State or Texas.
Ohio State’s Path to the Cotton Bowl
The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been one of the most successful programs in college football, and the 2024 season has been no different. With a highly efficient offense, a stout defense, and an established culture of success, Ohio State entered the season with high expectations, and for the most part, they have delivered. However, they’ve faced challenges throughout the year that have made their road to the Cotton Bowl anything but a sure thing.
Offense: A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
The Buckeyes’ offense has been dynamic in many ways, but it’s been driven largely by the play of their quarterback position. Ohio State began the season with a highly regarded signal-caller, but injuries and inconsistency at the position have led to some uncertainty. However, what Ohio State has excelled at is adjusting and finding ways to move the ball, whether through the air or on the ground.
The Buckeyes’ offense revolves around their playmakers, including elite running back TreVeyon Henderson, and a wide receiving corps that can rival any in the country. Receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr., who is considered one of the top wide receivers in college football, will be central to Ohio State’s offensive success. Harrison’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays will be crucial, especially against a Texas secondary that is talented but can be susceptible to big plays if not disciplined.
One of the key storylines heading into the Cotton Bowl will be the performance of Ohio State’s quarterback. Whether it’s a starter returning from injury or a backup stepping in, the Buckeyes need steady, mistake-free play from the quarterback position to advance to the College Football Playoff. They’ll also need to find ways to open up the offense and create opportunities in the passing game to exploit any weaknesses Texas may have in their coverage schemes.
Defense: Buckeyes’ Strength and Consistency
On the other side of the ball, Ohio State’s defense has been their hallmark throughout the season. The defense is built on speed, physicality, and a relentless pass rush that can pressure any quarterback. Defensive linemen like J.T. Tuimoloau have been disruptive forces, and their ability to get after Texas’ quarterback will be a major factor in the game’s outcome.
In the secondary, Ohio State’s defensive backs are experienced and athletic, with the ability to lock down opposing receivers. This could be crucial when trying to contain Texas’ high-powered passing attack, which is anchored by one of the most talented quarterbacks in college football. Ohio State’s defense will need to maintain discipline and execute on all levels, from the defensive line to the secondary, to ensure that Texas doesn’t exploit any weaknesses.
Texas’ Path to the Cotton Bowl
Texas has been one of the most intriguing teams in college football this season. After a few seasons of rebuilding, head coach Steve Sarkisian has gotten the Longhorns back into contention for a national championship. With a combination of explosive offensive playmakers, a tough defense, and an improved overall roster, Texas is poised to make a run at the College Football Playoff if they can get past Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl.
Offense: Quinn Ewers and the Texas Air Attack
Texas’ offense is led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has made significant strides in his development as a college quarterback. Ewers has all the tools to be a top NFL prospect, and throughout the season, he has displayed the ability to make all the throws necessary to lead Texas’ offense to success. His poise in the pocket and ability to stretch the field with his arm make him a dangerous weapon, especially when he’s given time to survey the field.
The Longhorns’ offense also boasts one of the most dynamic running backs in the country in Bijan Robinson. Robinson has been a workhorse for Texas this season, consistently producing big plays both as a runner and as a receiver out of the backfield. Robinson’s ability to balance the offense and provide a steady ground game will be essential for Texas’ success in the Cotton Bowl. Ohio State will need to contain Robinson, as he has the potential to control the tempo of the game and keep the Buckeyes’ defense on its heels.
The wide receiver group for Texas is also highly talented, with players like Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington providing deep-threat potential. These playmakers will be key in taking advantage of Ohio State’s secondary, especially in one-on-one matchups. Texas’ ability to mix up its offense and keep Ohio State’s defense off balance will go a long way in determining the outcome of the Cotton Bowl.
Defense: Longhorns’ Physical Front Seven
Texas’ defense has been one of the more underrated units in college football this season. Led by a physical front seven, the Longhorns have consistently been able to stifle opposing offenses, especially in the run game. The defensive line, which features future NFL talent like defensive end Baron Browning, will need to play its best game of the season to contain Ohio State’s explosive offense.
One of the keys to Texas’ defensive success has been its ability to apply pressure on the quarterback. If they can generate a consistent pass rush against Ohio State’s quarterback—whoever it may be—it could disrupt the timing of the Buckeyes’ offense and prevent them from executing effectively. Additionally, the Texas secondary, while talented, will need to be disciplined against Ohio State’s potent receiving corps. Players like cornerback Jalen Catalon and safety Anthony Cook will need to be at their best in pass coverage, limiting big plays from Marvin Harrison Jr. and the rest of the Ohio State receiving group.
Key Matchups: Ohio State vs. Texas
There are several key matchups that will determine which team advances to the College Football Playoff from the Cotton Bowl:
- Ohio State’s Passing Attack vs. Texas’ Secondary: The ability of Ohio State’s receivers, especially Marvin Harrison Jr., to exploit the Texas secondary will be crucial. Texas’ defensive backs will need to be disciplined and avoid allowing big plays downfield. If Ohio State can establish a rhythm in the passing game, it will put a lot of pressure on Texas to keep up.
- Quinn Ewers vs. Ohio State’s Pass Rush: Texas’ offense is heavily reliant on Quinn Ewers’ ability to make plays downfield. Ohio State’s pass rush, led by J.T. Tuimoloau, will need to get consistent pressure on Ewers to disrupt his timing and force him into mistakes. If Ewers has time to throw, he has the ability to light up the scoreboard.
- Bijan Robinson vs. Ohio State’s Run Defense: Robinson is one of the most talented running backs in college football, and his ability to control the game on the ground will be crucial for Texas. Ohio State’s defense will need to shut down Robinson early and force Ewers to win the game with his arm. If Texas can establish the run, it will open up play-action opportunities and make life easier for Ewers.
- Turnover Battle: In games of this magnitude, turnovers can be the difference between victory and defeat. Both teams have playmakers who can force turnovers, and whoever wins the turnover battle will likely come out on top. Ohio State and Texas will need to be disciplined with the football and avoid giving their opponent easy opportunities.
Conclusion: Predicting the Outcome
The Cotton Bowl is shaping up to be a classic showdown between two of college football’s most storied programs, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Ohio State’s well-rounded defense, explosive offense, and playoff pedigree make them a formidable opponent, but Texas has been playing with an edge all season, led by a talented quarterback, a dynamic running back, and a physical defense.
Ultimately, the game will come down to which team can impose its will in the trenches and execute its game plan effectively. Ohio State’s defensive line and secondary will need to contain Quinn Ewers and Bijan Robinson, while Texas will need to disrupt the rhythm of Ohio State’s offense and stop their passing attack.
While both teams have the talent to win, Ohio State’s experience in high-stakes games and their defensive ability gives them a slight edge. Expect a thrilling, closely contested Cotton Bowl, but in the end, Ohio State’s defense will be the difference-maker, allowing them to advance to the College Football Playoff.
