Ohio State and Texas are set to face off in the Cotton Bowl, offering a preview of their 2025 season opener. Both teams secured their spots in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal through impressive performances. Ohio State overcame Tennessee at home and avenged a previous loss to Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Texas earned its spot by defeating Clemson at home and beating Arizona State in the Peach Bowl.
This matchup marks the first meeting between the two programs since Texas’ 24-21 victory in the 2008 Fiesta Bowl. Historically, Ohio State leads the series 2-1 and aims to even the record. A win would also advance the Buckeyes to their second National Championship Game under head coach Ryan Day.
Ohio State enters the game as a 6.5-point favorite. Analysts predict a strong performance from the Buckeyes, who have been dominant throughout the CFP. They’ve consistently excelled against tough competition, while Texas has shown flashes of potential but has yet to deliver its best performance.
Ohio State’s potent offense, featuring standout perimeter players, and its formidable defense are expected to be decisive factors. Predictions suggest that while Texas might challenge early, the Buckeyes will eventually pull away. Analysts emphasize Ohio State’s current momentum and well-rounded team as reasons for their likely victory.
The Cotton Bowl showdown is anticipated to be a critical step in Ohio State’s pursuit of the national title, setting the stage for another championship oppor
tunity.