Ohio State (12-2-0) at Texas (13-2-0)
- When: Jan 10 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Ohio State (#8) @ Texas (#5)
Moneyline
Ohio State (#8) -240
Texas (#5) +200
Ohio State (#8) @ Texas (#5)
Point Spread
Ohio State (#8) -6.0 (-110)
Texas (#5) 6.0 (-110)
Ohio State (#8) @ Texas (#5)
Total
Over 53.0 (-105)
Under 53.0 (-115)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
Ohio State: Will Howard 3490 Yds
Texas: Quinn Ewers 3189 Yds
Team Stats
| Ohio State | Texas | |
| 12-2 | Record | 13-2 |
| 4-1 | Away | 6-0 |
| 8-6-0 | ATS | 8-7-0 |
| 7-7-0 | O/U | 6-8-1 |
Last Matchup:
TEX 24-21, January 5th, 2009
Game Preview
Ohio State enters the Cotton Bowl as a 6.0-point favorite, with the total set at 53.0, in what promises to be an electrifying College Football Playoff semifinal matchup against Texas. With a trip to the national championship on the line, both powerhouse programs are set to clash at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Betting Analysis
The quarterback battle takes center stage as No. 8 Ohio State (12-2) faces No. 5 Texas (13-2). Ohio State’s Will Howard, a former Kansas State QB, is still looking for his first career win against the Longhorns after going 0-4 in Big 12 matchups. Meanwhile, Texas QB Quinn Ewers will be facing his former team for the first time after transferring from Ohio State to return to his home state.
Howard sees this as a redemption game, saying, “Texas is the only Big 12 team I never beat. We had close games, even took them to overtime last year. I’m excited to get another shot.” Ewers, on the other hand, remains diplomatic about his departure from Ohio State, emphasizing his respect for the program and his decision to come back to Texas to be closer to home.
Despite the neutral-site designation, the crowd at AT&T Stadium is expected to be filled with Longhorn fans. However, Ohio State has history on its side, boasting a 3-1 record at the venue, including a dominant 42-20 win over Oregon in the 2015 national championship game.
Key Matchups and Betting Factors
Ohio State’s Dynamic Receiving Corps: The Buckeyes’ offense is led by Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, who combined for 2,120 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns. Their ability to stretch the field will challenge Texas’ secondary, which has struggled against elite receivers this season.
Texas’ Run Game Struggles: The Longhorns managed just 1.8 yards per carry in their double-overtime win against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. Head coach Steve Sarkisian knows they must improve: “We’re at our best when we can run the ball. We need to create that balance to open up the passing game.”
Ohio State’s Fast Starts: The Buckeyes have built early leads in both playoff games, including a 34-8 halftime lead over Oregon in their quarterfinal rout. If they get out to another quick start, Texas could find itself in a difficult spot trying to play catch-up.
Recent Performances
Ohio State’s offense was firing on all cylinders in their 41-21 win over No. 1 Oregon, with Howard throwing for 319 yards and Smith hauling in seven catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns. On the other hand, Texas’ win over Arizona State raised concerns, as they needed double overtime to secure a 39-31 victory despite being favored by a significant margin.
Betting Predictions
Spread Pick (-6.0): Ohio State’s offensive firepower and ability to jump out to early leads make them the safer bet to cover the spread. If Texas can’t establish the run, their chances of keeping this close diminish.
Total Pick (53.0): Both teams have the ability to score in bunches, but Ohio State’s defense has been effective in holding top offenses in check. If the Buckeyes build another early lead and control the tempo, the under could be a smart play.
Prop Bets to Consider:
Jeremiah Smith over 100.5 receiving yards: Smith’s ability to exploit weak coverages makes him a prime candidate for another big game.
Will Howard over 2.5 passing touchdowns: Howard’s chemistry with his receivers has been on display throughout the playoffs.
Quinn Ewers under 275.5 passing yards: With Texas’ run game struggling, Ewers may face increased pressure from Ohio State’s defensive line.
Prediction:
The Buckeyes’ superior offense and fast starts should allow them to control the game and cover the spread. Texas will likely need more than a home-field crowd to slow down Ohio State’s dynamic receiving corps and maintain offensive balance. Expect the Buckeyes to punch their ticket to the national championship in Atlanta.
Cotton Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Ohio State 27-20
Expert Pick: Ohio State -6 & Under 52½ (-115)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357
- Cotton Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
