Texas vs. Ohio State: How to watch the College Football Playoff semifinal game preview

The 89th Cotton Bowl Classic features two of the best units in all of college football, with Ohio State’s high-powered offense clashing with Texas’ notorious defense. Unable to earn a first-round bye after their SEC title game loss to Georgia, the Longhorns responded with a 38-24 win over Clemson in the first round and a Peach Bowl win over Arizona State in 2OT. Despite a heartbreaking loss to Michigan to end the regular season, Ohio State rebounded with two blowout wins over 9-seed Tennessee and 1-seed Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Quarterback Will Howard is on a hot streak with 630 total passing yards and five TDs in the Buckeyes’ first two playoff games, and freshman phenom wide receiver Jeremiah Smith hasn’t been stopped with 13 catches for 290 yards and 4 TDs in Ohio State’s blowout wins.

Despite both teams being among some of the most prolific offenses in college football, defense is key in this Cotton Bowl matchup. Texas linebacker Colin Simmons leads the defense with nine total sacks and cornerback Jahdae Barron has a team-high five interceptions on the season. Ohio State’s defensive line and pass rush are powered by Jack Sawyer, who is coming off a two-sack performance against Oregon in the Rose Bowl. He has 10 sacks on the season to lead the Buckeyes. Both Texas and Ohio State rank in the top five in college football for fewest yards and points allowed per game. match.

Here’s how the two teams match up: