Craig Way, the Voice of the Longhorns: A Closer Look Before UT’s Playoff Matchup with Ohio State
As the University of Texas Longhorns prepare for one of the most anticipated games of their season—an intense playoff matchup with the Ohio State Buckeyes—there’s no better person to offer insights, predictions, and reflections on the team’s journey than Craig Way. Known as “The Voice of the Longhorns,” Way has spent decades calling the plays, recounting the action, and serving as the unmistakable auditory backdrop to one of the most storied athletic programs in college sports.
His deep association with UT athletics and his intimate knowledge of the team, its players, and its rich history gives him a unique perspective on what’s at stake in this pivotal playoff showdown.
A Legacy of Longhorn Broadcasting
Craig Way’s journey with the Longhorns began in 1996 when he first became the play-by-play announcer for UT football. Over the years, Way’s voice has become synonymous with the excitement and drama of Longhorn sports, whether it’s a nail-biting last-minute touchdown or the highs of championship glory.
Way’s relationship with UT football, and specifically head coach Steve Sarkisian’s squad, is rooted in a deep love for the game and a genuine respect for the athletes who don the burnt orange jerseys. His role, however, goes beyond simply calling plays; he is a narrator of history, documenting the thrilling rise and heartbreaking falls of a team that has always been a powerhouse in college football.
The playoff matchup against Ohio State represents yet another chapter in a long, dramatic history between two programs that have both tasted glory on the biggest stage.
Expectations for the Longhorns
As the Longhorns approach this game, Craig Way acknowledges the immense talent and growth the team has shown under Steve Sarkisian’s leadership. “Sark has been phenomenal at developing these young athletes, and this year’s squad has really bought into his system,” Way says. The Longhorns, who have had a rollercoaster ride in previous seasons, are now poised to make a serious run for the national title. They enter the playoff with a confident group that has not only survived the highs and lows of a competitive regular season but has thrived through adversity.
“I think what’s impressed me most is how the team has grown up throughout the course of the season,” Way adds. “They’ve faced a lot of different challenges, whether it’s been on the road against tough opponents or bouncing back from a tough loss. This team has an incredible sense of belief in themselves, and that confidence is contagious.”
For the Longhorns to overcome Ohio State, Way emphasizes the importance of staying disciplined and focused. “The key is not getting overwhelmed by the occasion,” he explains. “This is a big game, with big stakes, but the team needs to stick to what has worked all season long. They’ve shown they can play with anyone in the country, and they just need to do what they do best.”
The Ohio State Challenge
When the conversation turns to Ohio State, Way’s tone shifts slightly—acknowledging the stature and tradition of the Buckeyes. “Ohio State is a behemoth of a program,” he admits. “There’s a reason they are always in the conversation for national championships. Their talent level is through the roof, and they’re a well-coached, disciplined team that knows how to win big games.”
But Way also points out that Ohio State, while incredibly talented, has shown some vulnerabilities over the course of the season. “They’ve had their ups and downs, especially when facing teams with a strong defensive front. I think if you can disrupt their rhythm, and make them uncomfortable in the pocket, you can force them into mistakes,” he suggests.
Ohio State’s quarterback, who has been touted as one of the best in the nation, is a particular point of focus for Way. “This kid has all the tools—arm strength, mobility, the ability to read defenses. He’s dangerous,” Way warns. “But the key is to keep him off balance. If you give him time to set up in the pocket, he’s going to pick you apart. So the Longhorns’ defensive front, led by [Defensive Coordinator] Pete Kwiatkowski, will need to bring pressure consistently.”
In terms of scheming for Ohio State, Way believes the Longhorns have the right players in place to do so. “Their defensive line is one of the best in the country. You’ve got a guy like [Player Name], who can dominate up front, and a secondary that has been opportunistic all year. If they play disciplined football and stick to the game plan, they can keep Ohio State from establishing any momentum.”
The Role of Quarterback Quinn Ewers
One of the most pivotal figures in the Longhorns’ playoff push is Quinn Ewers, the team’s talented sophomore quarterback. Way has been consistently impressed with Ewers’ growth throughout the season, from his early struggles to his recent brilliance in big games.
“I think Quinn has matured tremendously,” Way observes. “He’s always had the physical tools—the arm strength, the accuracy—but what’s been impressive is his poise. He’s not afraid of the moment, and he’s grown into the role of leader. He’s making better decisions, not forcing the ball, and that’s a huge part of why the offense has clicked.”
Way highlights one of the key attributes of Ewers’ development: his ability to execute when it matters most. “Quinn’s been able to shine in crunch-time situations. That’s what you want from your quarterback when the game is on the line. Whether it’s a big third-down conversion or a game-winning touchdown pass, Quinn has stepped up.”
Ewers’ ability to manage the game and make clutch plays in high-pressure moments will undoubtedly be crucial against a team like Ohio State. Way is clear about what he expects from the quarterback in this playoff game: “He has to stay calm, trust his training, and not try to do too much. If he stays within himself, the Longhorns will have a good shot at winning.”
Special Teams and Coaching Adjustments
As always, Craig Way also highlights the importance of special teams and coaching adjustments in a playoff game of this magnitude. “This is one of those games where every possession matters, every mistake can be costly,” he explains. “That’s where special teams come in—they can be the difference between a win and a loss.”
Whether it’s a long kickoff return, a timely punt block, or a game-winning field goal, special teams are often the unsung heroes of playoff football. For Way, this game represents a chance for the Longhorns’ special teams to show their value, and he is confident they are up to the challenge.
Way also emphasizes that Steve Sarkisian’s ability to make in-game adjustments will be critical. “Sark’s offensive mind is one of the best in the game. He knows how to exploit matchups, and he’s not afraid to change things up when something isn’t working,” he says. “This game will require both teams to adjust on the fly. Whoever can do that better will have the upper hand.”
The Longhorns’ Fans and Legacy
With all the focus on the Xs and Os, Craig Way also takes a moment to reflect on the significance of the game for the Longhorns’ fans. “This program has such a passionate fan base, and they’ve been waiting for a moment like this for years. The anticipation for this playoff game is palpable, and it’s a reminder of just how much Longhorn football means to the community,” he notes.
The Longhorns have experienced ups and downs over the past decade, but a playoff berth is a sign of renewed hope. For Way, this season represents more than just a potential championship; it’s a reminder of the program’s enduring legacy. “Texas football is about more than wins and losses—it’s about tradition, pride, and the drive to be the best. This game against Ohio State is a chance to show the world that the Longhorns are back where they belong,” he says.
