Ohio State and Texas Set for College Football Playoff Semifinal Clash in Cotton Bowl

The Buckeyes, riding postseason momentum, face the Longhorns in a matchup that could determine the national championship favorite.

Ohio State enters the Cotton Bowl as a slight favorite following dominant playoff wins over Tennessee and top-seeded Oregon.
Texas, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, narrowly advanced with a double-overtime victory against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl quarterfinals.
Both teams feature standout players, including Ohio State's freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has been a key offensive weapon in the playoffs.
Analysts highlight Ohio State's balanced offense and stout defense, while Texas is seen as needing a near-perfect performance to overcome inconsistencies.
The winner of this semifinal will advance to face Notre Dame in the national championship game on January 20 in Atlanta.