Steve Sarkisian and Quinn Ewers have received a significant boost ahead of Texas’ showdown with Ohio State in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl.
According to ESPN, Texas offensive tackle Cameron Williams is set to start in Friday’s game. Williams missed the Longhorns’ previous matchup, a 39-31 victory over Arizona State, due to a sprained right knee. Although he was initially a game-time decision for the New Year’s Day clash, he was ultimately ruled out. The 21-year-old had sustained the injury against Clemson in the CFP opener, leaving him unable to bear weight on his leg. In his absence, redshirt freshman Trevor Goosby filled in at right tackle.
Williams’ absence was noticeable during the Peach Bowl, where Texas struggled to establish a ground game, managing only 53 rushing yards. The offense, particularly on outside zone runs to the right, failed to find its rhythm—a testament to Williams’ importance to the team.
Since joining Texas in 2022, Williams has appeared in 37 games, including 16 starts, solidifying his reputation as a key player on one of the nation’s top offensive lines. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 335 pounds, the junior is projected to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.
His return provides a critical boost for head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns, who enter the semifinal as underdogs against Ohio State. However, Sarkisian downplayed the significance of the label during a press conference on Thursday, emphasizing the team’s focus and preparation.
“We don’t talk about being underdogs,” Sarkisian said. “The reality is, you either win or lose. Our job is to give maximum effort, stay focused, and execute in key moments. That’s what we’re concentrating on.”
While Sarkisian acknowledged that players are aware of outside opinions through social media, he emphasized the importance of maintaining the right mindset. “Human nature is human nature,” he remarked. “Our players see what’s out there, but we don’t let it define us. Our focus remains on performing at our best.”
