Texas Longhorns 28 vs. 14 Ohio State Buckeyes – Goodyear Cotton Bowl Game Recap
The Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes on January 1, 2025, was a thrilling encounter that lived up to its billing as one of college football’s premier postseason games. Texas, led by their dynamic offense and swarming defense, emerged victorious 28-14, sending a statement to the college football world about their dominance. The contest, which took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, was filled with dramatic plays, emotional moments, and stellar performances from both teams. Here’s a breakdown of the game’s key moments, stats, and highlights.
First Half: Slow Start, Quick Breakout
The game began with both teams trying to find their rhythm. Ohio State, making its return to the Cotton Bowl after a few years of absence, entered the contest with high hopes and the confidence of a top-tier offense. Texas, meanwhile, was determined to prove they belonged among the elite teams in college football, having made a statement by being in the New Year’s Six bowl games.
First Quarter: Defensive Showdown
The first quarter set the tone with both teams focusing on defense. Texas, behind an aggressive defensive front, was able to disrupt Ohio State’s quarterback, who struggled to find consistency early. Ohio State’s defense, in turn, was stout, with their front seven pressuring Texas’ offense, particularly quarterback Quinn Ewers. Both teams exchanged punts early on, with neither offense managing to break through.
Texas’ defensive standout in the first quarter was linebacker Jalen Ford, who continuously disrupted Ohio State’s offensive plays. Ford’s ability to read the Buckeyes’ offensive formations and make crucial tackles was one of the driving forces behind keeping Ohio State at bay in the opening 15 minutes.
Second Quarter: A Game of Big Plays
The game opened up in the second quarter as Texas’ offense found some space. Running back Jonathan Brooks, who had been key to Texas’ success throughout the season, broke a 25-yard run down the sideline, setting up a strong red-zone opportunity for the Longhorns. The following play saw Quinn Ewers, who had struggled early, redeem himself by throwing a precise touchdown pass to wide receiver Xavier Worthy for a 12-yard score. The touchdown gave Texas an early 7-0 lead and energized the crowd of more than 60,000 in attendance.
Ohio State, however, didn’t take long to respond. Quarterback Kyle McCord found his rhythm midway through the second quarter, connecting with Marvin Harrison Jr. on a 40-yard deep ball to set up a first-and-goal for the Buckeyes. McCord capped off the drive with a 3-yard touchdown pass to tight end Cade Stover, tying the game at 7-7.
The game remained tied as both teams exchanged possessions, but Texas was able to seize control just before halftime. A timely interception by Texas safety Anthony Cook set up a 60-yard touchdown drive that ended with a beautiful 18-yard pass from Ewers to tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders in the end zone. With just 30 seconds left on the clock, Texas took a 14-7 lead into the halftime break.
Second Half: Texas Takes Control
Third Quarter: Texas’ Defense Stands Tall
The second half began with both teams intent on controlling the tempo, but Texas quickly took the upper hand in the third quarter, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Ohio State, which had been known for its explosive passing game, was completely neutralized by Texas’ secondary and pass rush. Defensive linemen T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy II combined for two key sacks, forcing Ohio State into third-and-long situations.
Texas’ defense stymied any significant plays in the third quarter, and McCord struggled to get the ball to his playmakers. With Ohio State’s offense sputtering, Texas took advantage, methodically moving the ball down the field on the ground. Jonathan Brooks was again instrumental, breaking multiple tackles and continuing his dominant performance in the backfield. Brooks finished the game with 126 yards and two touchdowns, earning the respect of his opponents with every carry.
With 4:45 remaining in the third quarter, Texas extended their lead to 21-7 when Brooks capped off a 14-play, 75-yard drive with a 5-yard touchdown run. The Longhorns’ ability to control the ball and wear down Ohio State’s defense was evident throughout the drive.
Fourth Quarter: Ohio State’s Last-Gasp Effort
Ohio State came out in the fourth quarter determined to make it a game, but time was not on their side. McCord led a quick 6-play, 55-yard drive to open the quarter, which was capped off by a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back TreVeyon Henderson, trimming the Longhorns’ lead to 21-14 with 12 minutes remaining.
However, Texas responded with the poise and composure that had defined their season. On the ensuing possession, the Longhorns took control of the clock with a run-heavy approach, using both Brooks and quarterback Quinn Ewers’ legs to keep the chains moving. Ewers, who had been steady all game, connected with Worthy for a key 22-yard reception that moved the ball deep into Ohio State territory. The Buckeyes’ defense, which had been struggling to get off the field all game, couldn’t stop Texas’ efficient offensive attack.
With just under five minutes remaining, Texas sealed the game with a 3-yard touchdown run from Brooks, giving them a 28-14 lead. Ohio State tried to mount one final rally, but the Longhorns’ defense stood firm, forcing McCord into a pair of incomplete passes in the closing moments to preserve the win.
Key Stats
- Texas Longhorns:
- Quinn Ewers (QB): 20/28, 234 yards, 1 TD
- Jonathan Brooks (RB): 25 carries, 126 yards, 2 TDs
- Xavier Worthy (WR): 6 receptions, 75 yards, 1 TD
- Ja’Tavion Sanders (TE): 5 receptions, 48 yards, 1 TD
- Jalen Ford (LB): 8 tackles, 1 interception
- Byron Murphy II (DT): 2 sacks, 3 tackles for loss
- Ohio State Buckeyes:
- Kyle McCord (QB): 21/36, 276 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
- TreVeyon Henderson (RB): 15 carries, 59 yards
- Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR): 7 receptions, 112 yards
- Cade Stover (TE): 3 receptions, 45 yards, 1 TD
- J.T. Tuimoloau (DE): 5 tackles, 1 sack
- Steel Chambers (LB): 9 tackles, 1 sack
Key Takeaways
- Texas’ Defense Was Unstoppable: The Longhorns’ defense controlled the line of scrimmage, harassing McCord all game long. With multiple sacks and key interceptions, they made it difficult for Ohio State to build any momentum. Their ability to limit big plays in the air was a crucial factor in the victory.
- Jonathan Brooks’ Big Day: Brooks, who had quietly been one of the most productive backs in the country, showed up when it mattered most. His two-touchdown performance and over 100-yard game were pivotal in Texas’ ability to control the tempo and ultimately close out the game.
- Ohio State’s Offensive Inconsistencies: While Ohio State showed flashes of brilliance, McCord struggled under pressure, particularly in the face of Texas’ relentless defense. The Buckeyes’ offense could not maintain a consistent rhythm, and when they needed big plays, Texas’ defense was there to shut them down.
- Quinn Ewers’ Growth: Despite some early struggles, Ewers showed poise and maturity as the game went on. His 234-yard, 1-touchdown performance highlighted his development, and his connection with Sanders and Worthy was a key part of Texas’ success.
