Ohio State vs. Texas: A Cotton Bowl Clash With a Personal Twist

The Cotton Bowl on January 10 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the College Football Playoff. Ryan Day’s Ohio State Buckeyes will face the Texas Longhorns, led by standout quarterback Quinn Ewers. Both teams are legitimate national championship contenders, promising an electric atmosphere and a showdown fans won’t want to miss.

But for Ohio State, this game carries an added layer of intrigue. It’s not just about advancing to the title game—it’s also about revisiting a pivotal “what-if” moment involving Ewers, who once called Columbus home.

The Ewers Connection

Quinn Ewers’ journey to Texas started at Ohio State, where he was one of the most highly regarded recruits in the nation. Although his tenure with the Buckeyes was brief and he never played a snap, Ewers left a lasting impression on head coach Ryan Day and the program.

Day recently reflected on Ewers’ recruitment and eventual transfer.

“I saw a young boy at the time who just had a tremendous release,” Day said. “I remember grabbing him and grabbing his dad and said, ‘Man, you’ve got a bright future ahead of you. I don’t know if this is good or bad, but we’re going to offer you a scholarship to Ohio State.’”

Despite Ewers’ potential, circumstances led to his departure—a decision Day admits was difficult to accept.

“He always had a great attitude. You could see the talent. Certainly, didn’t want to see him leave, but we knew he was going to be a special player,” Day said. “He’s had a great career at Texas. A lot of people here still have good relationships with him and think the world of him.”

Quarterback Duel: Ewers vs. Howard

Now at Texas, Ewers has developed into a star, guiding the Longhorns to the CFP with a mix of poise and playmaking ability. Opposite him will be Ohio State’s Will Howard, another elite quarterback who has led the Buckeyes through a stellar season.

Both players are capable of commanding explosive offenses, and their duel could define the game. Ewers brings an aggressive, downfield passing attack, while Howard’s balance and efficiency have been the cornerstone of Ohio State’s success.

A High-Scoring Affair?

This Cotton Bowl matchup has all the ingredients for a shootout. Both teams boast dynamic offenses with the ability to light up the scoreboard. Texas can run the ball effectively and stretch defenses with Ewers’ arm, while Ohio State counters with a well-rounded attack that thrives in both the air and on the ground.

Defensively, Ohio State appears to have the edge. The Buckeyes’ defense, when firing on all cylinders, has the potential to be among the nation’s best. Texas’ defense, though talented, will have its hands full containing Ohio State’s offensive firepower.

A Game of Redemption?

For Ryan Day, this game is about more than just advancing to the national championship. It’s a chance to prove that letting Ewers leave doesn’t have to define the Buckeyes’ future. While Day holds no ill will toward his former quarterback, facing him in such a high-stakes game undoubtedly adds a personal element to the matchup.

Can Ohio State’s defense rise to the occasion? Will Quinn Ewers come back to haunt his former team? Or will Will Howard solidify his place in Buckeyes lore with a heroic performance?

The answers will come under the bright lights of the Cotton Bowl. One thing is certain: fans are in for a treat as two powerhouse programs clash in what promises to be a thrilling and emotional game.