Ohio State Favored Over Texas in High-Stakes College Football Playoff Semifinal
As the University of Texas looks to contend for a national championship, they face off against Ohio State this Friday night in Arlington for a spot in the College Football Playoff national title game. While Texas has a storied football history and an impressive track record, they will need to overcome the odds to defeat the Buckeyes in this high-stakes semifinal matchup.
The Longhorns’ Resurgence Under Steve Sarkisian
For the first time in years, the Texas Longhorns are once again relevant in college football, thanks to head coach Steve Sarkisian’s leadership. Texas, which last claimed a national championship at the conclusion of the 2005 season, has battled through a tough season to reach the semifinals. Despite a tumultuous path to the College Football Playoff, including a dramatic double-overtime win over Arizona State, the Longhorns have shown they are a force to be reckoned with.
However, even a playoff berth might feel hollow for the Longhorns if they fail to advance beyond the semifinal, especially after falling short in last year’s playoff. The pressure is on to prove that Texas belongs at the top of college football once again.
Ohio State’s Dominance and Status as Favorite
The Ohio State Buckeyes enter this game as the clear favorites, with a 5.5-point advantage over Texas. The Buckeyes are coming off an emphatic 41-21 victory over the top-ranked Oregon Ducks in the previous round. Their offense, led by quarterback Will Howard, has been firing on all cylinders, and their defense has been equally impressive, racking up eight sacks against Oregon.
Ohio State’s offense, led by Howard, is potent, with the quarterback throwing three touchdowns in their victory, including two to star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who had a remarkable seven catches for 187 yards. Ohio State’s offensive firepower and dominant defense have earned them their status as the team to beat in this matchup.
Texas’ Key to Victory: The Running Game
For Texas to pull off the upset, the Longhorns will need to establish a strong running game. Running back production has been inconsistent throughout the season, but in their quarterfinal win over Clemson, Texas gained 292 yards on the ground, a performance they’ll need to replicate against Ohio State. However, their running game struggled in their previous game against Arizona State, where they gained less than 100 yards, a stat that raises concerns heading into this matchup.
Texas will have to control the clock by running the ball effectively and keeping Ohio State’s explosive offense off the field. If the Longhorns can establish dominance on the ground, they could limit the Buckeyes’ opportunities to score and increase their chances of securing a win.
Ohio State’s Aerial Attack: A Major Threat
What truly makes Ohio State dangerous, though, is their aerial assault. Quarterback Will Howard’s arm and the receiving prowess of Jeremiah Smith have been key to their success this season. The Buckeyes’ ability to attack through the air, combined with their devastating pass rush, could give Texas problems. Ohio State’s defense has been a dominant force, and their ability to sack opposing quarterbacks — like they did with Oregon — could be a game-changer in this semifinal.
The Home Field Advantage: Will Texas Fans Make a Difference?
Despite the odds, the Longhorns could benefit from a more favorable crowd atmosphere. AT&T Stadium, located just 200 miles from Austin, could be packed with Texas fans, and the home-field advantage might be amplified if winter weather disrupts Ohio State fans’ travel plans. The possibility of fewer Buckeye fans in the stands could play a psychological role, especially in a game of this magnitude.
Game Details and What’s at Stake
The highly anticipated game between Ohio State and Texas kicks off at 6:30 PM ET on ESPN. The winner will advance to the Jan. 20 national championship game in Atlanta, where they will face the winner of the Penn State vs. Notre Dame matchup.
Looking beyond this playoff run, Texas will open the 2025 season with a challenging road trip to Columbus, Ohio, to take on Ohio State — a matchup that could set the tone for next season and further cement the rivalry between these two powerhouse programs.
Conclusion
As the College Football Playoff semifinal approaches, all eyes will be on Arlington as Texas faces off against Ohio State in a critical clash of elite programs. The Longhorns will need to overcome the odds and rise to the occasion, especially against a Buckeyes team that has shown dominance on both sides of the ball. The stakes could not be higher, and this thrilling semifinal will undoubtedly leave fans on the edge of their seats.
