Texas vs. Ohio State: The Cotton Bowl Showdown You Can’t Miss

It’s time for a massive clash between two college football heavyweights: No. 5 Texas and No. 8 Ohio State. This year’s Cotton Bowl is more than just a playoff game—it’s a chance to punch a ticket to the College Football Playoff (CFP) national championship. With two star quarterbacks, a powerhouse receiving corps, and some serious stakes, this game is set to be an epic showdown. Let’s break it all down.

The Quarterback Face-Off

First, let’s talk quarterbacks—because, honestly, that’s where all the drama starts.

• Quinn Ewers (Texas): This one hits close to home—literally. Ewers, who’s from Southlake (just 20 miles from the stadium), actually started his college career at Ohio State before transferring back to Texas. Why? To be closer to home and his roots. He’s got no hard feelings about leaving Ohio State, though:
  “I don’t regret anything, but coming back to Texas just felt right,” Ewers said.
• Will Howard (Ohio State): Howard’s got a chip on his shoulder. Back when he was at Kansas State, Texas was his kryptonite, beating him all four times they faced off. He’s fired up for a second shot:
  “They were the only team I never beat. It’s personal now.”

Ewers vs. Howard might not seem like a grudge match at first, but there’s plenty of backstory to make this one spicy.

Ohio State’s Secret Weapon: Their Receivers

Here’s the thing: Ohio State’s wide receivers are terrifying for defenses.

• Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka are the dynamic duo you don’t want to face. These two combined for 2,120 yards and 24 touchdowns this season. Oh, and Smith absolutely lit up Oregon in the quarterfinals with 187 yards and two touchdowns.
• Ohio State’s fast starts are no joke, either. In their playoff games so far, they’ve been up 21-0 or better after the first quarter.

Texas’ defense is fully aware of what they’re up against. As Texas defensive back Michael Taaffe put it:

If Texas can’t contain them, it’s going to be a long night.

Texas Needs to Fix Its Running Game—Fast

On the flip side, Texas has a big problem: their rushing attack.

• The Numbers Don’t Lie: Texas averaged just 1.8 yards per carry in their double-overtime win against Arizona State. For context, their season average is 4.5 yards per carry. That’s a huge drop-off.
• Coach Steve Sarkisian Knows It:
  “We’re at our best when we can run the ball. Balance is key. We just need to execute better,” Sarkisian said.

If Texas wants to keep Ohio State’s offense off the field, they’ll need to pound the rock and control the clock.

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Ohio State’s Momentum (and Swag)

Ohio State is rolling into this game with confidence—and for good reason.

• Proven Track Record: They’ve already steamrolled through Tennessee and Oregon in the playoffs. Plus, they’ve got a stellar 3-1 record at AT&T Stadium, including a national title win back in 2015.
• Coach Ryan Day Keeps It Real: For Ohio State, it’s not just about winning—it’s about the team.
  “This group loves competing together. You can see the passion every time they take the field,” Day said.

When you combine talent, team chemistry, and playoff experience, Ohio State looks like a tough out.

What Needs to Happen for a Texas Win

Texas doesn’t just need to play well—they need a near-perfect game. Here’s the recipe:

1. Shut Down Ohio State’s Receivers: This is non-negotiable. Texas has to disrupt Will Howard and make sure Smith and Egbuka don’t run wild.
2. Get the Run Game Going: Establishing the ground game is key to keeping their offense balanced and the Buckeyes’ offense on the sidelines.
3. Protect Ewers: If Texas can keep their QB upright and give him time to make plays, they’ve got a shot.

What’s on the Line

This isn’t just another bowl game. The winner moves on to the national championship to face either Penn State or Notre Dame. For Texas, it’s a chance to break a 20-year drought and get back to the top. For Ohio State, it’s about adding another trophy to their collection.

Final Thoughts

This game is shaping up to be a thriller. Will Texas rise to the occasion and shut down Ohio State’s explosive offense? Or will the Buckeyes continue their playoff domination and punch their ticket to the championship?

Grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for one of the most anticipated games of the season.