Ohio State Defeats Texas, Advances to Championship

Ohio State secured a 28-14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl, advancing to the College Football Playoff National Championship for the first time since 2020. The Buckeyes initially struggled offensively due to penalties but managed to regain momentum with a critical 88-yard touchdown drive capped by Quinshon Judkins' 1-yard run, giving them a 21-14 lead. Defensive end Jack Sawyer clinched the win with an 83-yard fumble return for a touchdown after forcing Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers to fumble on a fourth down at the Ohio State 10-yard line. TreVeyon Henderson also made headlines with a pivotal 75-yard touchdown reception just before halftime, which helped Ohio State take a 14-7 lead. The Buckeyes will face Notre Dame in the championship game on January 20, following Notre Dame's victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl.