Friday night’s College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl brought fans to the edge of their seats as Ohio State faced off against Texas in a high-stakes showdown. The game wasn’t just about talent or strategy—it came down to who could make the critical play when it mattered most. And when the dust settled, it was Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer who delivered the moment of the night, sending the Buckeyes to the national championship with an emphatic win.
The Buckeyes’ journey to victory was nothing short of spectacular. Late in the fourth quarter, with just over two minutes left on the clock, Ohio State held a precarious seven-point lead. Their defense had been a fortress all season, particularly in the red zone, where they were ranked No. 2 nationally in scoring defense. On the other hand, Texas had struggled in the same area, ranking 95th nationally in red zone offense. This contrast set the stage for a dramatic finish.
Earlier in the game, Ohio State had taken control with an impressive 13-play, 88-yard drive. The march downfield showcased their resilience and ability to deliver under pressure. A pivotal moment came during this drive when quarterback Will Howard converted a critical fourth down with a powerful run. The drive culminated in a one-yard touchdown by Quinshon Judkins, their star running back, giving the Buckeyes a 21–14 lead with just over seven minutes remaining.
Texas, however, wasn’t about to back down. The Longhorns responded swiftly, with quarterback Quinn Ewers connecting on a 27-yard pass to Matthew Golden. Despite nursing an injury, Golden’s performance was nothing short of heroic. The drive was also aided by a couple of pass interference penalties against Ohio State’s secondary, putting Texas on the brink of tying the game.
The tension was palpable as Texas approached the red zone. Fans held their breath as the Longhorns made multiple attempts to breach Ohio State’s impenetrable defense. With each passing play, the stakes grew higher. Then came the defining moment: a 4th-and-goal situation from the eight-yard line. Ewers took the snap in shotgun formation, but before he could make a play, he was chased out of the pocket by none other than his former Ohio State roommate, Jack Sawyer.
Sawyer didn’t just sack Ewers—he stripped the ball, scooped it up, and sprinted 83 yards to the end zone. The stadium erupted as Ohio State extended their lead to 28–14, effectively sealing their ticket to the national championship. It was a play that will go down in Buckeye history, not just for its impact but for the sheer athleticism and determination on display.
The drama didn’t end there. In a last-ditch effort, Ewers and the Longhorns attempted to mount a comeback, but Ohio State’s defense held firm. Another Ewers turnover—this time a desperation interception—put the final nail in the coffin. The Buckeyes celebrated their victory knowing they had earned a date with Notre Dame in Atlanta for the College Football Playoff national championship on January 20.
What made this game so thrilling wasn’t just the outcome but the journey to get there. Ohio State’s ability to execute under pressure, combined with their suffocating defense, showcased why they’re one of the top teams in the nation. From Howard’s clutch fourth-down conversion to Sawyer’s game-clinching heroics, every moment was a testament to the Buckeyes’ grit and determination.
Meanwhile, Texas showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in their offensive drives led by Ewers and Golden. Despite falling short, the Longhorns demonstrated resilience and heart, qualities that bode well for their future. But on this night, it was Ohio State’s ability to capitalize on key moments that made all the difference.
Looking ahead, the Buckeyes now turn their attention to Notre Dame, a team with its own storied history and a hunger for glory. The stage is set for an epic showdown in Atlanta, where two college football powerhouses will clash for the ultimate prize. If Friday’s semifinal is any indication, fans can expect nothing less than a thrilling, hard-fought battle.
Key Takeaways from the Game:
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Jack Sawyer’s Heroics: Sawyer’s strip-sack and 83-yard fumble return will be remembered as the play of the game—and perhaps the season.
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Ohio State’s Defensive Dominance: Ranked No. 2 nationally in red zone scoring defense, the Buckeyes once again proved why they’re so hard to beat when the stakes are high.
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Clutch Performances: Will Howard’s fourth-down conversion and Quinshon Judkins’ touchdown run exemplified the team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
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Texas’ Grit: Despite the loss, the Longhorns showed they’re a team to watch, with standout performances from Ewers and Golden.
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Championship Bound: The Buckeyes’ win sets up a highly anticipated matchup against Notre Dame in the national championship.
The Cotton Bowl semifinal will be remembered as a classic—a game that had everything from heart-stopping plays to dramatic finishes. For Ohio State fans, it was a night to celebrate, and for college football enthusiasts, it was a reminder of why this sport captures our hearts. The countdown to January 20 begins, and if Friday’s game is any indication, the national championship promises to be a spectacle for the ages.
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