The Texas Longhorns, under the leadership of head coach Steve Sarkisian, have enjoyed a remarkable 13-2 season, culminating in a berth in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl. Their journey has been marked by a potent offense, a resilient defense, and a series of hard-fought victories that have showcased the team’s determination and skill. Offensively, the Longhorns are spearheaded by quarterback Quinn Ewers, whose development throughout the season has been pivotal to Texas’s success. Ewers has demonstrated a strong arm, accurate passing, and the ability to make decisive plays under pressure. His leadership was particularly evident in the double-overtime victory against Arizona State, where he orchestrated critical drives that secured the win. The receiving corps, featuring standout wide receivers and a reliable tight end unit, has provided Ewers with a diverse array of targets. Their ability to create separation and execute precise routes has been instrumental in stretching opposing defenses and facilitating big plays. The chemistry between Ewers and his receivers has been a cornerstone of the Longhorns’ offensive strategy. The ground game, led by a committee of talented running backs has complemented the passing attack effectively. Running backs Jonathon Brooks and Jaydon Blue have combined for over 2,000 rushing yards this season, showcasing a blend of power, speed, and vision. The offensive line, anchored by All-American tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., has been crucial in creating running lanes and providing solid pass protection for Ewers. This unit’s performance against Ohio State’s formidable defensive front will be pivotal in determining Texas’s success. Defensively, the Longhorns have been one of the most well-rounded units in college football, allowing just 4.1 yards per play. Defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat and linebacker Jaylan Ford have anchored the front seven, excelling in both run defense and pass rush. Sweat’s ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage has been instrumental in stalling opposing offenses, while Ford’s versatility has made him a standout performer in multiple facets of the game. The secondary, led by cornerbacks Ryan Watts and Jahdae Barron, has been effective in limiting big plays and forcing turnovers. Their ability to match up against Ohio State’s talented receiving corps will be a key factor in this semifinal. The Longhorns’ defensive game plan will likely emphasize pressuring Ohio State quarterback Will Howard and disrupting the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm. Special teams have been a consistent strength for Texas this season. Kicker Bert Auburn has delivered in high-pressure situations, and punter Ryan Sanborn has been effective in pinning opponents deep. The return game, featuring explosive playmaker Xavier Worthy, has the potential to shift momentum with impactful plays. Maintaining discipline and execution on special teams will be essential in a game of this magnitude. Head coach Steve Sarkisian’s offensive expertise and ability to make in-game adjustments have been a driving force behind Texas’s success. Sarkisian’s strategic approach to exploiting defensive weaknesses and creating mismatches will be crucial against Ohio State’s disciplined and athletic defense. The Longhorns will need to execute a balanced attack, leveraging their strengths in both the run and pass games to keep the Buckeyes off balance. Keys to victory for Texas include establishing the run to control the clock, protecting Ewers to enable him to connect with his playmakers, and maintaining defensive discipline to limit Ohio State’s explosive plays. Special teams execution will also play a critical role in securing favorable field position and converting scoring opportunities. For Texas, this semifinal represents an opportunity to solidify their return to national prominence and earn a spot in the College Football Playoff championship game. With a balanced roster, strong coaching, and the home-state advantage of playing in Texas, the Longhorns are poised to deliver a performance that reflects their season-long determination and skill. A victory would mark a significant milestone in the program’s history and bring them one step closer to their ultimate goal of a national title.