The stage is set for the 2025 College Football National Championship as the Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the Texas Longhorns, 28-14, in the Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. A thrilling semifinal saw Ohio State overcome challenges to earn their place in the title game against Notre Dame, marking a matchup between two iconic programs.
Game Highlights: Ohio State vs. Texas
Key Moments
- Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer Shines:
Defensive end Jack Sawyer sealed the game with a dramatic 83-yard fumble recovery touchdown, giving the Buckeyes a commanding 28-14 lead late in the fourth quarter. Sawyer, a former roommate of Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, made the game’s pivotal play. - Buckeyes’ Offensive Playmakers:
Quarterback Will Howard threw for 289 yards, including a spectacular 75-yard touchdown pass to TreVeyon Henderson just before halftime, showcasing Ohio State’s explosive offense. - Texas’ Resilience:
The Longhorns tied the game twice, fueled by Quinn Ewers, who passed for 283 yards and two touchdowns. However, costly turnovers in the final minutes dashed their championship hopes.
Breaking Down the Game
First Half: A Tight Battle
- Ohio State Takes the Lead:
Running back Quinshon Judkins scored the opening touchdown, and Henderson’s electrifying 75-yard catch put Ohio State up 14-7 by halftime. - Texas Responds:
Despite struggling on the ground, the Longhorns capitalized on a crucial fourth-down conversion by fan-favorite Arch Manning, followed by an 18-yard touchdown from Jaydon Blue to tie the game before halftime.
Second Half: Ohio State Pulls Ahead
- Ohio State regained momentum with a 1-yard touchdown run by Judkins, making it 21-14 early in the fourth quarter.
- The Buckeyes’ defense, ranked first nationally, came through with a game-clinching interception in the final minutes, holding Texas scoreless in the closing moments.
Key Stats: Ohio State vs. Texas
| Team | Total Yards | Turnovers | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State Buckeyes | 370 | 2 | Will Howard, Jack Sawyer |
| Texas Longhorns | 341 | 3 | Quinn Ewers, Jaydon Blue |
- Ohio State’s defense recorded multiple sacks and forced three critical turnovers, including the game-defining fumble by Sawyer.
- Texas’ highly touted defense held Ohio State star wideout Jeremiah Smith to just one catch for three yards, but their offense couldn’t capitalize on opportunities.
Next Stop: National Championship
Ohio State will now face Notre Dame Fighting Irish on January 20, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The matchup is rich with history, featuring two programs with storied legacies. Notably, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman played at Ohio State, adding an intriguing layer to the championship narrative.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State’s victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl 2025 showcased the resilience, talent, and determination of the Buckeyes. The win marks their return to the national title game for the first time since 2015, as they aim to secure their first championship in a decade.
Stay tuned as the Buckeyes take on Notre Dame in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the expanded College Football Playoff season.
Ohio State defeats Texas 28-14 to punch ticket to national championship: Highlights
