Breaking News: Ohio State overcomes mistakes, makes late defensive play to beat Texas 28-14 in Cotton Bowl, advance to CFP title game….

Breaking News: Ohio State Overcomes Mistakes, Makes Late Defensive Play to Beat Texas 28-14 in Cotton Bowl, Advance to CFP Title Game

In a thrilling showdown at the Cotton Bowl, the Ohio State Buckeyes battled through adversity, overcoming several key mistakes to defeat the Texas Longhorns 28-14 and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game. The victory, hard-fought and gritty, was sealed by a crucial late defensive play that shifted the momentum in Ohio State’s favor, allowing them to close out the game and continue their quest for a national title.

A Game of Contrasts

From the opening whistle, it was clear that both teams were poised for a high-stakes, physical battle. Texas, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers and a stout defense, came out swinging, determined to prove they belonged on the biggest stage. Meanwhile, Ohio State, featuring one of the most potent offenses in the country, struggled to find a rhythm early on. Both teams had their share of highs and lows, but it was Ohio State’s resilience and ability to make big plays when it mattered most that ultimately carried them to victory.

Despite Ohio State’s offensive firepower, it was their defense that ultimately turned the tide. The Buckeyes’ offense, led by quarterback Kyle McCord, was inconsistent throughout the game, suffering from a series of uncharacteristic mistakes, including dropped passes, penalties, and costly turnovers. The Longhorns capitalized on these errors, taking a 14-7 lead midway through the third quarter after a long touchdown run from Texas running back Bijan Robinson and a short pass from Ewers to Xavier Worthy.

However, as the game wore on, Ohio State’s defense began to assert itself. Led by defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the Buckeyes’ defense adjusted, applying pressure to Ewers and stifling Robinson’s efforts on the ground. The late-game heroics came in the form of a game-changing interception and a timely defensive stop in the red zone that ultimately sealed the victory.

A Rocky Start for Ohio State

Ohio State’s offense, usually a well-oiled machine, showed signs of rust early in the game. McCord, who had been sharp throughout the season, struggled to find his footing. The Texas defense, bolstered by aggressive play and high-level secondary coverage, kept the Buckeyes’ wide receivers in check. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State’s star wide receiver, was particularly well-covered by Texas cornerback Ryan Watts, and other key playmakers like TreVeyon Henderson found little room to run.

Despite their mistakes, the Buckeyes’ defense held firm in the first half. Texas had opportunities to widen the gap, but Ohio State’s defense made key stops, including a crucial fourth-down stop in the second quarter that kept the game within reach. At the half, Texas led 7-0, with both teams struggling to capitalize on their opportunities.

“I think we were a little tight in the first half,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day after the game. “Texas did a great job defensively, but we just had to settle down and trust our game plan. Our guys did a great job of sticking together and staying focused. In big moments like this, it’s all about resilience.”

The Turning Point: Defensive Play and Late Offensive Surge

In the third quarter, the Buckeyes’ defense came alive. With Texas threatening to extend their lead, linebacker Tommy Eichenberg intercepted a pass intended for Worthy, taking it all the way down to the Texas 35-yard line. That play swung momentum in Ohio State’s favor, and it wasn’t long before the Buckeyes capitalized on the turnover. McCord, looking more composed, connected with Harrison Jr. for a 20-yard touchdown, tying the game at 7-7.

The game stayed tied until midway through the fourth quarter when, with the Longhorns up 14-7, Ohio State made its most pivotal play of the game. Defensive back Denzel Burke stepped in front of a throw from Ewers intended for tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, coming up with a critical interception near the Ohio State 45-yard line. This turnover, coupled with a Texas personal foul penalty, set up a short field for McCord and the Buckeyes.

With less than five minutes left in the game, Ohio State pounced. McCord, aided by a mix of short passes and timely runs from Henderson, orchestrated an 8-play, 55-yard drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown plunge from Henderson, giving the Buckeyes their first lead of the game, 21-14.

With time winding down, Texas had one final chance to tie the game, but the Buckeyes’ defense held firm once again. On Texas’ ensuing possession, Ohio State’s defensive line, led by J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, put relentless pressure on Ewers, forcing a desperation throw that was intercepted by safety Lathan Ransom, sealing the win for the Buckeyes and sending them to the CFP National Championship.

Post-Game Reactions

After the game, Ohio State’s players were understandably elated, knowing they had just overcome one of their toughest tests of the season. “This team has faced a lot of adversity this year, and we knew tonight was going to be no different,” said McCord, who finished with 275 yards and two touchdowns despite the early struggles. “We’ve got a lot of heart on this team, and we believe in each other. Texas is a great team, but we just kept fighting.”

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, while disappointed with the loss, expressed pride in his team’s effort. “Our guys played hard, and we had our chances. Ohio State’s defense stepped up when they needed to, and we just couldn’t capitalize on a couple of opportunities,” said Sarkisian. “But I’m proud of the way our team competed. This program is on the rise, and we’ll learn from this experience.”

Looking Ahead: The CFP National Championship

With the win, Ohio State advances to the College Football Playoff National Championship, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal game between Georgia and Michigan. The Buckeyes, who are looking to capture their first national title since 2014, will face an even tougher challenge in the title game, but their resilience, especially in the face of adversity, has made them one of the most dangerous teams in college football.

Head coach Ryan Day was quick to shift focus toward the next challenge: “We’ve accomplished a lot to get to this point, but the job is far from over. We’re going to enjoy this win for a short time, but then it’s all about getting ready for the biggest game of our lives.”

With their defense peaking at the right moment and their offense showing flashes of brilliance, Ohio State looks primed for a thrilling championship run.