The Texas Longhorns are set to face the Ohio State Buckeyes in a pivotal College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal match at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. This contest marks a significant milestone for Texas, which has not reached the championship game since 2010. Despite their fifth seed, the Longhorns find themselves as underdogs against the eighth-seeded Buckeyes, a situation reminiscent of their September 2023 matchup against Alabama. The winner of this intense showdown will advance to the CFP final on January 20 in Atlanta, facing off against Notre Dame. Early indicators suggest that both teams will need to bring their A-game to secure victory.
The opening quarter did not bode well for Texas, with Ohio State quickly asserting dominance. The Buckeyes capitalized on their first drive, marching down the field in a 10-play, 64-yard sequence that culminated in a touchdown run by Quinshon Judkins. Meanwhile, the Longhorns struggled to establish any rhythm, managing only 6 yards on six carries and falling behind early. As the game progressed, the Texas defense showed resilience but failed to translate this into offensive momentum. By halftime, the Longhorns were still searching for their first points.
Throughout the second quarter, Texas's defense continued to hold its ground, limiting Ohio State's scoring opportunities. However, the offense remained stagnant, with quarterback Quinn Ewers facing constant pressure from the Buckeyes' defensive line. Despite several promising drives, the Longhorns could not capitalize on key plays, often stalling due to penalties or sacks. Ewers, who recently hinted at his potential retirement from college football, had a particularly challenging day, fumbling during one of the sacks. The team’s inability to establish a consistent running game further compounded their difficulties.
In addition to the on-field challenges, Texas faced uncertainty regarding its kicking game. Coach Steve Sarkisian hinted at the possibility of replacing veteran kicker Bert Auburn, known for his school record in made field goals but struggling with consistency this season, with junior Will Stone. Auburn's recent performance, including missed attempts in critical moments, raised concerns about his reliability. Stone, while untested in collegiate field goals, has been reliable in handling kickoff duties and could provide a fresh perspective for the special teams unit.
As the game unfolded, the Longhorns faced an uphill battle, needing to overcome both their own struggles and the formidable Buckeyes. While the defense held strong, the offense needed a breakthrough to keep hopes alive. With several key players out due to injuries, Texas relied heavily on its remaining roster to deliver under pressure. Despite the odds, the Longhorns remained determined, aiming to make history and advance to the national championship. Ultimately, the outcome hinged on whether Texas could find its groove and capitalize on crucial plays, setting the stage for an unforgettable semifinal clash.