Ohio State’s Dominant Win Over Texas: A Ticket to the National Championship

January 14, 2025National Championship

Ohio State defensive star Jack Sawyer created a moment for the ages during the Buckeyes’ 28-14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. His game-sealing 83-yard fumble return touchdown against his former roommate, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, was a play that will be etched in Ohio State history.

We talked before the game about how to leave a legacy,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said. “Some guys on this team just became legends.” Sawyer’s play not only secured the win but also earned Ohio State a chance to compete for their sixth AP National Championship title.

Defining Moments

Jack Sawyer’s game-sealing play will go down in memory of Buckeyes history. The Ohio native came up big in a fourth and goal play by causing a fumble with Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers. After stripping the ball, Sawyer took it 83 yards back for a touchdown, which set a record for the longest fumble recovery in CFP. Sawyer did the heroism after Texas (13-3) got to the 1-yard line only to be held back more by the Ohio State defense. Quintrevion Wisner stepped backward and took a 7-yard loss while Ewers, under pressure, threw an incomplete pass, the two plays that led to the fateful turnover.

The Turning Point: Sawyer’s Game-Changing Strip-Sack

Sawyer’s pivotal play came when Ewers, under pressure, fumbled the ball. Sawyer scooped it up and sprinted down the sideline for the touchdown. “I saw the ball pop out right to me after I tackled him,” Sawyer said. “I almost blacked out when I scooped it and saw the green grass ahead of me.”

Ewers acknowledged the moment, stating, “I felt him. I thought I’d get the ball off before he got there. Jack’s a good player who made a great play.”

Game Changing Strip Sack

Ohio State’s Path to the National Championship

TreVeyon Henderson’s thrilling 75-yard touchdown catch gave the team a momentum after they stumbled with four straight punts. One of the key components of Ohio State’s remarkable drive for the National Championship was their explosive offense, as seen in this play.

Nevertheless, Texas maintained the game’s competitiveness. The Longhorns were unable to maintain offensive consistency, despite Ewers’ two touchdown strikes to Jaydon Blue tying the game twice.

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Texas Fights but Falls Short

Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers had some moments of brilliance by completing two touchdown passes to Jaydon Blue including the 26-yarder third quarter score that drew the teams level. Ewers had 283 passing yards but was constantly brought under pressure by the Buckeyes’ defense particularly from Sawyer.

Texas Fights but Falls

Though the Longhorns join the SEC next season, Texas continues its pursuit for its first national championship since 2005. This loss could be the last in Ewers’ collegiate football if he declares to go for the NFL Draft.

Defensive Excellence Shines for the Buckeyes

The key to Ohio State’s triumph was their defense. At the end of the game, the Buckeyes drove a threatening offense back to the point they had a 7 yards loss and forced Ewers to throw an incomplete pass before they scored the final defensive touchdown through Sawyer.

“He’s everything we ask for in a captain,” Day said of Sawyer. “He just became a legend at Ohio State.”

Texas’ Challenges and Ewers’ Future

Ewers, who concluded with 283 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, demonstrated moments of brilliance but was unable to overcome Ohio State’s relentless pressure. This may be his final game with Texas as he approaches entering the NFL draft.

Despite making consecutive appearances in the CFP semifinals, Texas has not won a national title since 2005, and it will be transitioning to the SEC next season.

The Dream About National Championship 

The goal at this moment is set on the National Championship, and the Buckeyes are preparing for the CFP title game. Apart from marking their position among the college football elites, the victory against Texas paved the way for a sixth title.

At the same time, Texas will attempt to rebuild and prepare for the next game against Ohio State in the planned 2025’s opener game at Ohio Stadium.

Conclusion

Ohio State’s 28-14 win over Texas is remarkable and was a testament to their determination and talent to win the National Championship. The Buckeyes are on the verge of making history, thanks to the exceptional performances of players such as Jack Sawyer and TreVeyon Henderson. One question still exists as the season approaches its conclusion: Will Ohio State secure the National Championship and reinforce their legacy?

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