For quarterback Quinn Ewers, it was set to be a validating moment. The Longhorns were major underdogs and Ewers made a handful of miraculous plays in the second half to swing the game, including a long pass to tight end Gunner Helm and magical toss to a running back while being tackled for a third-and-10 conversion.

Texas went from first-and-goal at the 1 and a chance to tie the score to seeing Ohio State secure the win and move on to the title game.

Some Texas fans are ready to see Arch Manning play for a shot at the national championship game. Viewers of the 2025 Cotton Bowl called for Steve Sarkisian