As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare to face the Texas Longhorns in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Cotton Bowl, here are key insights to understand about their formidable opponent.
1. Strong Season Performance: Texas enters the game with a 13-2 record, having won the SEC regular-season championship. The Longhorns have proven themselves against tough competition, boasting victories over ranked teams, including a thrilling double-overtime win against Arizona State in the quarterfinals.
2. Defensive Prowess: Texas has one of the top defenses in college football, ranking in the top five nationally for points and yards allowed per game. They have only surrendered more than 24 points twice this season, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses. Key players like safety Khadir Mukuba and linebacker Michael Taaffe lead a defensive unit that excels in both pass coverage and run defense.
3. Quarterback Play: Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers has been pivotal for the Longhorns this season. He brings a dynamic presence to the offense, but he will face one of the toughest defenses in Ohio State, which has excelled in pressuring quarterbacks throughout the playoffs.
4. Recent Matchup History: Historically, Texas leads the all-time series against Ohio State 2-1, with their last meeting occurring in 2009 at the Fiesta Bowl. This adds an intriguing layer to the matchup as both teams look to assert their dominance on a national stage.
5. Game Atmosphere: The Cotton Bowl is expected to have a home-field advantage for Texas, just a short drive from their campus. This familiar environment could energize the Longhorns as they aim to secure a spot in the national championship game.
Kickoff is set for January 10 at 7:30 PM ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With both teams bringing high-powered offenses and stout defenses, this semifinal clash promises to be an exciting showdown as they vie for a chance at college football’s ultimate prize.
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