Ohio State, currently the lowest seed left in the College Football Playoff, is viewed by many as the top contender for the national championship happening in Atlanta on January 20. This perception comes after the Buckeyes impressively defeated both Tennessee and top-ranked Oregon, showcasing their offensive strength against two formidable defenses.

In the Cotton Bowl semifinal, the challenge for Ohio State comes from Texas. The Longhorns almost faced defeat against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl quarterfinal but managed to secure a thrilling overtime win. With their offensive strategy under scrutiny, Texas will have to find effective ways to score to keep up with the Buckeyes.

Aside from the chance to reach the national championship, this game offers significant bragging rights: the Big Ten’s Buckeyes versus the SEC’s Longhorns. After the final whistle, one conference will have the upper hand. So, who will emerge victorious? Our analysts share their insights.

Scooby Axson

If Ohio State’s offense can get going, Texas and their quarterback Quinn Ewers must keep pace and score with the Buckeyes. However, Texas has struggled to maintain consistent offensive pressure and has allowed leads to slip away, which could turn a potential easy win into a nail-biter. The $20 million momentum continues and the previous loss against Michigan feels far behind. Ohio State 34, Texas 21.

Jordan Mendoza

Ohio State has clearly demonstrated itself as a national championship contender. The key to their success has been their explosive starts, making comebacks nearly impossible for their opponents. After a shaky second half against Arizona State, Texas’ defense needs to avoid falling behind early if they hope to advance to the national championship. If they fail to contain star receiver Jeremiah Smith, the Buckeyes will secure their trip to Atlanta. Ohio State 31, Texas 20.

Paul Myerberg

Ohio State appears unstoppable. Texas must deliver its finest performance of the season (or perhaps even the decade) to defeat the strong Buckeyes. Quinn Ewers showed promise late in the Peach Bowl, but Texas’ ongoing issues with offensive consistency will likely allow OSU to pull away for yet another decisive victory. Ohio State 38, Texas 27.

Erick Smith

In playoff scenarios, often the initial expectations are met and the momentum carries to the following round. Most experts foresee Ohio State maintaining its playoff success against Texas. However, could Texas be taking advantage of any overconfidence from the Buckeyes? It’s certainly a possibility considering how both teams performed in their quarterfinals. The Texas offense, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, will need to elevate its game to achieve an upset. It’s a long shot, but don’t be shocked if this game ends up tighter than anticipated. Ohio State 28, Texas 24.

Eddie Timanus

Texas needs to play almost flawlessly to keep up with Ohio State – and they likely won’t. While the Longhorns will score, it won’t be nearly enough. A crucial interception in the first half will hand Ohio State a multi-score lead, which they will not give up. Ohio State 45, Texas 24.

Dan Wolken

If Ohio State’s offense continues to perform at its current impressive level, this matchup could become lopsided. Texas has struggled to deliver explosive plays in their offense, and they will require more than a few to keep up. Despite Texas’ solid defensive performance this season, they displayed vulnerabilities in the quarterfinal against Arizona State, and the level of skill they’ll face in this game is unprecedented for them this year. Ohio State rightfully stands as the favorite here. Ohio State 38, Texas 17.