Ohio State Advances to National Championship After Defeating Texas in Cotton Bowl
Ohio State will face Notre Dame for the national title following a decisive 28-14 win over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. The Buckeyes’ defense was key in stopping a last-minute drive by the Longhorns, punctuated by Jack Sawyer’s remarkable fumble return for a touchdown, which solidified their victory with just over two minutes left.
With 2:13 remaining in the game, Sawyer stripped Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers of the ball on a fourth-down attempt and then dashed 83 yards for the score. In a post-game interview, Sawyer reflected, ‘I saw the ball pop out right to me after I tackled him and I was thinking I just gotta stay on my feet because like I said, I almost blacked out when I saw all that green grass in front of me.’
Trailing by seven points, Texas found themselves with a first-and-goal situation at the Ohio State 1-yard line after two critical pass interference calls. However, a combination of solid defensive play from the Buckeyes and poor execution by the Longhorns led to a crucial stop. Ewers’ attempts to pass during the drive were thwarted, including a tipped pass that resulted in Sawyer’s game-clinching turnover.
Ohio State had taken a 21-14 lead earlier in the match when running back Quinshon Judkins powered through for his second touchdown of the night, following an 88-yard drive that consumed nearly eight minutes. This drive included a pivotal fourth-down conversion by quarterback Will Howard.
Notably, Texas had tied the game just before halftime with a touchdown pass from Ewers to running back Jaydon Blue. Despite Texas’s efforts, including a late interception by Caleb Downs, the Buckeyes secured their position in the national championship game against Notre Dame, set for January 20 in Atlanta.
Texas’s Defensive Strategy on Jeremiah Smith
Many Texas fans anticipated that keeping Ohio State’s star receiver Jeremiah Smith to just one catch for three yards would mean victory. However, while the Longhorns effectively limited Smith, they could not contain other Buckeye players. Carnell Tate led the team with seven receptions for 87 yards, while TreVeyon Henderson’s contributions, including a pivotal 75-yard touchdown before halftime, were instrumental.
Texas’s reliance on Jaydon Blue proved fruitful, as he was the team’s significant offensive weapon, catching five passes for 59 yards and both of Texas’s touchdowns. The Longhorns’ offensive strategy effectively exploited opportunities in Ohio State’s defense, particularly due to injuries to key Texas players.
Ohio State’s Fluctuating Performance
Although Ohio State demonstrated dominant performances in the prior playoff rounds, their performance against Texas highlighted some inconsistencies. After an impressive opening drive, the Buckeyes struggled to maintain momentum, resulting in several drives ending in punts.
Despite the challenges, Ohio State’s depth of talent ultimately prevailed, keeping them on course for their sixth national championship title.
Upcoming Challenge
With the victory, Ohio State will meet Notre Dame, the Orange Bowl champions, who defeated Penn State 27-24. This matchup marks the third encounter in four seasons between the two teams, with Ohio State looking to maintain their perfect record against Notre Dame.
Expectations are high for the championship clash, and both teams will be eager to make their mark in what promises to be an exciting finale to the college football season.
