The 2025 Cotton Bowl is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matchups in college football, with the Texas Longhorns set to face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes. Scheduled for January 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, this College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal carries high stakes as both teams look to secure their berth in the national championship game.
Texas, currently ranked No. 3, clinched its spot with an electrifying double-overtime victory over Arizona State. The thrilling win was characterized by resilience, as the Longhorns rallied back to fend off the Sun Devils after trailing late. They also endured the pressure of missing two game-winning field goals during regulation—a hurdle they managed to overcome through defensive prowess and determination.
Meanwhile, Ohio State, ranked No. 7, enters this contest with momentum from their impressive victory over Oregon, which was considered the title favorite going forward. Ohio State’s performance showcased their dominant offensive capabilities and solidified their standing as serious challengers within the CFP framework.
The upcoming clash marks the continuation of the storied rivalry and history between these two powerhouse programs, who last faced each other during the 2009 Fiesta Bowl, where Texas emerged victorious. If history tells us anything, fans can expect nothing short of electric plays and strategic battles as each team aims to outpace the other.
Ticket sales for the Cotton Bowl have already begun, with prices reflecting the high demand for this prestigious matchup. Currently, prices for basic tickets start at approximately $290, but for those seeking premium experience, lower bowl sections command prices upwards of $550. Fans hoping to catch this highly anticipated game should act quickly as demand is expected to escalate, leading up to game day. Tickets are available through platforms like StubHub and Vivid Seats, renowned for their hassle-free purchasing processes.
With multiple layers of excitement surrounding the Cotton Bowl, from tactical showdowns to star player performances, the stakes couldn't be higher. The matchup is expected to draw significant attention, not only for its historical rivalry but also for its potential playoff ramifications. The pair of teams now face the challenge of not only maintaining their momentum but also proving they belong at the top of the college football hierarchy.
Adding to the atmosphere, Texas' beloved mascot, Bevo XV, will return to the sidelines for this special occasion after missing the previous postseason appearances due to logistical constraints at earlier venues. His presence is expected to boost the spirits of players and fans alike as they rally together for their team.
With both teams vying for glory and the right to compete for the national championship, the Cotton Bowl symbolizes not just the culmination of their on-field efforts this season, but also the loyalty and passion their supporters embody. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping close tabs on strategy, execution, and the ever-important mental game as Texas and Ohio State prepare to clash.
Looking at the big picture, the Cotton Bowl is not simply another game; it is the gateway to potential championship aspirations. The outcome of this semifinal will resonate beyond the scoreboard, as it could redefine both programs' legacies and futures in college football. The Longhorns and Buckeyes are not just playing for wins—they are playing for their place among the elites of the sport.
Both teams have been waiting for this moment—now it's time to deliver on their promise. Who will rise to the occasion and earn their shot at the national title next week? One thing's for sure, this showdown at AT&T Stadium promises excitement, tension, and unforgettable moments.