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2025 CFP Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic: Ohio State vs. Texas
Jan
Introduction
The 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal is set to take place at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Friday, January 10, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This highly anticipated showdown will feature two powerhouse programs: the Ohio State Buckeyes (12-2, 7-2 Big Ten) and the Texas Longhorns (13-2, 7-1 Southeastern Conference). The game is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN Radio, bringing this monumental event to fans across the country.
With a CFP National Championship berth on the line, both teams are determined to leave it all on the field. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting matchup!
Game Details
- Date: Friday, January 10, 2025
- Time: 6:30 p.m. CT
- Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
- Teams: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 5 Texas
- Broadcast: Live on ESPN and ESPN Radio
For fans who won’t be able to attend in person, you can stream the game live on ESPN or listen to the radio broadcast on ESPN Radio.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Season Overview
The Ohio State Buckeyes have made their mark in the 2025 College Football Playoff, securing their place after a commanding 41-21 victory over Oregon in the 2025 CFP Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl. Ohio State finished the regular season with an impressive 12-2 record, including a 7-2 performance in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference.
As one of the most successful programs in college football history, Ohio State has consistently been a force to reckon with. This marks their second consecutive appearance in the Cotton Bowl Classic and their fourth overall. They are eager to prove themselves once again on the national stage.
Key Players to Watch
- C.J. Stroud (QB): Ohio State’s standout quarterback has been integral to the Buckeyes’ offense this season. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws will be crucial in their quest for victory.
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR): A top target for Stroud, Smith-Njigba has the ability to make game-changing plays and will be key to Ohio State’s passing attack.
- Zach Harrison (DE): A dominant force on defense, Harrison is known for his ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive schemes.
How Ohio State Can Win
For Ohio State to secure a spot in the CFP National Championship on January 20, they will need to leverage their explosive offense, spearheaded by Stroud and Smith-Njigba. Defensively, they will need to put pressure on Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers and contain the Longhorns’ dangerous run game, led by Bijan Robinson.
Texas Longhorns
Season Overview
The Texas Longhorns come into the 2025 CFP Semifinal with a stellar 13-2 record, including a 7-1 performance in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Texas earned its spot in this prestigious semifinal after a thrilling 39-31 double-overtime victory over Arizona State in the 2025 CFP Quarterfinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.
This is a program with a rich football legacy, and their return to the Cotton Bowl Classic marks their 23rd appearance in this historic game. Texas has enjoyed a great deal of success at this venue, and they are hungry for another victory.
Key Players to Watch
- Quinn Ewers (QB): The Longhorns’ quarterback has had an incredible season, showing both poise and precision. His leadership will be crucial for Texas’ offensive success in this semifinal.
- Bijan Robinson (RB): One of the most talented running backs in the nation, Robinson has the ability to take over games with his combination of speed and power.
- Jerrin Thompson (S): Texas’s defense, led by safety Thompson, will be vital in stopping Ohio State’s explosive offense. Expect Thompson to be a key player in the secondary.
How Texas Can Win
To secure a spot in the CFP National Championship, Texas will need to control the tempo of the game. This means managing the clock effectively, running the ball with Robinson, and limiting Ohio State’s offensive opportunities. Additionally, Ewers will need to make precise throws and avoid turnovers, while the defense must find a way to contain Ohio State’s dynamic passing attack.
Head-to-Head History
Series Record
The Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns have faced each other three times in the past, with Texas holding a 2-1 series advantage. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming semifinal.
Previous Meetings
The most recent meeting between these two teams occurred in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, where Texas came out on top with a 24-21 victory. That game was a thrilling contest, and both teams will no doubt remember it as they prepare for this high-stakes matchup.
What’s at Stake
With the CFP National Championship just around the corner, both Ohio State and Texas are eager to prove they have what it takes to make it to the biggest stage in college football. This semifinal is not just about pride; it’s about securing a spot in the final game of the season and having a chance to claim the ultimate prize in college football.
Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic: Facts & Stats
The 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic is not just another bowl game—it is a game rich in history. This year marks the fourth time the Cotton Bowl will host a CFP Semifinal. Previous semifinals held here include the 80th edition in 2015, the 83rd in 2018, and the 86th in 2021. With such a prestigious history, the 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic is sure to be another chapter in this storied venue’s legacy.
The Cotton Bowl Classic is the final game to be played before the CFP National Championship on January 20, 2025, in Atlanta, adding even more weight to this important semifinal matchup.
Ticket Information & Game Day Details
While tickets have sold out through the official Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic Ticket Office, there may still be secondary market options available via SeatGeek. Additionally, fans can explore premium seating and suite packages, which provide exclusive access to game day amenities and events.
For fans attending the game, managing tickets and parking is made easy through the official Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic app or SeatGeek app. These apps are available for download on iOS and Android devices, ensuring a smooth and seamless game day experience.
