Sawyer’s Fumble Return Seals Buckeyes’ Victory, Setting Up Showdown with Notre Dame
Arlington, Texas – In a dramatic turn of events, Ohio State clinched a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship game with a hard-fought 28-14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. A pivotal fumble recovery and 83-yard touchdown return by defensive end Jack Sawyer late in the fourth quarter solidified the Buckeyes’ triumph, setting the stage for a clash against Notre Dame in the title game on January 20th in Atlanta.
Late-Game Drama Decides a Tight Contest
Clinging to a 21-14 lead with just over two minutes remaining, Ohio State’s defense came up with the game-defining play. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, driving for the potential tying score, fumbled under pressure from Sawyer, his former Ohio State roommate. Sawyer scooped up the loose ball and raced downfield for the decisive touchdown.
“I saw the ball pop out right to me…and I was thinking I just gotta stay on my feet because…I almost blacked out when I saw all that green grass in front of me,” Sawyer recounted in a postgame interview.
On Texas’s subsequent possession, an interception by Caleb Downs further extinguished the Longhorns’ hopes, ensuring Ohio State’s advancement to their first national championship game since 2015.
Defensive Prowess on Display
Both teams showcased their defensive strength throughout the contest. Texas managed to effectively neutralize Ohio State’s star receiver Jeremiah Smith, holding him to a single catch for three yards. However, other Buckeyes stepped up, with Carnell Tate leading the receiving corps with seven receptions for 87 yards. Running back TreVeyon Henderson provided a spark with a 75-yard touchdown reception just before halftime.
Texas’s offensive efforts were primarily led by running back Jaydon Blue, who contributed significantly in the passing game with five receptions for 59 yards and two touchdowns.
Buckeyes’ Road to Redemption
Since their regular season loss to rival Michigan, which sparked questions about coach Ryan Day’s job security, the Buckeyes have rallied impressively, winning three consecutive playoff games. Their upcoming matchup with Notre Dame, coached by former Ohio State linebacker Marcus Freeman, promises a compelling clash between two storied programs.
A Historic Matchup Awaits
The national championship game will mark only the seventh meeting between Ohio State and Notre Dame, with the Buckeyes holding a 6-0 advantage in the series. The game will also feature the first 12-team playoff format, adding another layer of historical significance to the event.