College Football Playoff: Key Insights for Texas Fans About Ohio State
In 2018, Texas and Ohio State announced a future two-game series scheduled for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. However, the highly anticipated matchup between these storied programs will happen much sooner—and with far more at stake.
Ohio State (12-2) and Texas (13-2) are set to face off in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl this Friday night. The winner will secure a place in the national championship game against either Penn State or Notre Dame.
This will mark the fourth clash between these powerhouse programs. The rivalry’s history includes thrilling moments, such as Vince Young’s game-winning touchdown pass in 2005 and Colt McCoy’s last-second heroics in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl. Ohio State’s lone win in the series came in 2006, halting Texas’ remarkable 21-game winning streak.
For Texas fans eager to understand their opponent, here are five essential insights about the Buckeyes:
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1. Texas Is Familiar with Ohio State Quarterback Will Howard
While the Longhorns and Buckeyes haven’t met on the field in over 16 years, Texas fans may remember Ohio State quarterback Will Howard from his Big 12 days at Kansas State. Howard has faced Texas three times before, losing each time. Most recently, in 2023, he threw for 327 yards and four touchdowns in an overtime thriller that ended with Texas prevailing 33-30.
Howard acknowledged his past struggles, saying, “(Texas) was the only team I didn’t beat when I was in the Big 12. There’s a little extra motivation there for me.”
This season, Howard has been outstanding, completing 72.6% of his passes for 3,490 yards and 32 touchdowns against nine interceptions. He’s also a threat on the ground, with seven rushing touchdowns.
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2. Ohio State Is Surging Despite Their No. 8 Seed
As the lowest seed remaining in the playoff bracket, Ohio State has defied expectations. The Buckeyes advanced to the semifinals with dominant performances, defeating No. 9 Tennessee and No. 1 Oregon by a combined score of 83-38.
Ohio State showcased their firepower early in both games, racing to a 21-0 lead against Tennessee and a commanding 34-0 advantage against Oregon. They’ve proven they belong, despite their initial seeding.
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3. A Shared Opponent: Michigan
Both Texas and Ohio State squared off against Michigan this season, providing a point of comparison. Texas delivered a statement win in September, defeating a then-ninth-ranked Michigan team 31-12 on the road. Meanwhile, Ohio State stumbled against Michigan in late November, suffering a 13-10 upset at home to an unranked Wolverines squad.
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4. Ohio State’s Defense Is Elite
The Buckeyes’ defense has been a force to reckon with throughout the season. Among 133 FBS teams, Ohio State ranks first in both yards allowed per game (244.6) and points allowed per game (12.1).
Their passing defense is unmatched, while their rushing defense ranks fifth nationally. Only one quarterback—Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel—has surpassed 300 passing yards against the Buckeyes this year. Similarly, only two players—Michigan’s Kalel Mullings and Oregon’s Jordan James—have managed to rush for more than 100 yards against this dominant unit.
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5. The Origin of “Buckeyes”
Ohio State’s teams have been known as the Buckeyes since the 1950s, a nod to the state’s official tree, the buckeye. The term refers to a small, dark brown nut with a light tan patch, said to resemble a deer’s eye. According to local folklore, carrying a buckeye nut is a symbol of good luck.
This deep-rooted nickname represents Ohio pride and has become synonymous with the school’s athletic excellence.
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Final Thoughts
Friday night’s Cotton Bowl clash promises to be a battle for the ages, pitting two legendary programs with storied histories and championship aspirations. Texas fans should be prepared for an Ohio State team that is motivated, peaking at the right time, and anchored by one of the nation’s best defenses. However, with their own impressive season and prior victories over Howard, the Longhorns are poised to rise to the occasion.
