The No. 4 Texas Longhorns defeated the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes 24-23 after a fourth-quarter comeback. The win marks the first for head coach Steve Sarkisian against Ohio State, having previously lost five games to the Buckeyes and Georgia.
Ohio State began the game by kicking off to Ryan Niblett, who returned it to the 22-yard line. The Buckeyes forced a fumble from Texas running back Raleek Brown early in the first quarter, but the Texas defense held, allowing only a 28-yard field goal. Ohio State’s first drive included a 23-yard pass to tight end Mason Williams.
Texas opened their first drive with runs from Hollywood Smothers, gaining eight yards. A deep pass attempt to Cam Coleman was intercepted by Ohio State safety Jaylen McClain. Sarkisian attempted to scheme Coleman open on a deep over route, but the ball was slightly overthrown.
After halftime, Texas scored three unanswered touchdowns in the fourth quarter to secure the 24-23 victory. The game represented a major test for Texas as they pursue their first national title since 2005. Prior to the game, it was reported that freshman running back Derrek Cooper was a game-time decision due to an ankle injury, but he was able to participate in warmups.
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