Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 1/10/2025 7:30 PM EST

We have your Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Ohio State Buckeyes hit the road to face the Texas Longhorns.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Ohio State Buckeyes -215 (FanDuel) / Texas Longhorns +190 (ESPN BET)
Best Spread Odds: 5.5 - Ohio State Buckeyes -118 (FanDuel) / 6.0 - Texas Longhorns -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 53.5 - Under -108 (BetRivers) / Over -108 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 1/10/2025
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA)
TV: ESPN

Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns Preview

The Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns are set to clash in a highly anticipated College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl. Both teams have navigated challenging paths to reach this stage, with Ohio State coming off a dominant 41-21 victory over the previously unbeaten Oregon Ducks, while Texas survived a thrilling double-overtime battle against Arizona State, winning 39-31.

Ohio State enters the matchup with a potent offense led by quarterback Will Howard, who has been instrumental in the Buckeyes' playoff run. Howard's connection with star freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith has been a highlight, with Smith recording 187 yards and two touchdowns against Oregon. The Buckeyes' offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 8.8 yards per play against Oregon, and they will look to continue this explosive form against a formidable Texas defense.

Defensively, Ohio State has been equally impressive, boasting a unit that ranks first overall in FBS according to SP+. The Buckeyes' defensive line, led by standout Jack Sawyer, has been relentless, recording eight sacks against Oregon. This pressure will be crucial in disrupting Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, a former Ohio State signee, who has been the driving force behind the Longhorns' offense.

Texas, on the other hand, will rely on its top-ranked defense to contain Ohio State's high-powered attack. The Longhorns have shown resilience throughout the season, with a defense that ranks first in yards per dropback allowed and third in interception rate. However, their offense has been inconsistent, as evidenced by their struggles against Arizona State, where they were outgained 510-to-375 yards.

The matchup between Ohio State's dynamic offense and Texas' stout defense promises to be a captivating battle. The Buckeyes will aim to exploit any weaknesses in the Longhorns' defense, while Texas will look to capitalize on any mistakes by Howard and the Ohio State offensive line, which has shown vulnerability to blitzes. With a spot in the national championship on the line, both teams will be eager to assert their dominance and secure a place in college football history.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns Pick: Ohio State Buckeyes Against the Spread

In the upcoming College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl, the Ohio State Buckeyes are favored to cover the spread against the Texas Longhorns. Ohio State has demonstrated a remarkable level of dominance in their playoff run, particularly with their commanding 41-21 victory over the previously undefeated Oregon Ducks. This performance was not an anomaly, as the Buckeyes have consistently showcased their offensive prowess, averaging 8.8 yards per play against Oregon, and have outscored their playoff opponents by a combined 83-38. Quarterback Will Howard has been a key figure in this offensive explosion, forming a lethal connection with freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith, who has been virtually unstoppable with 187 yards and two touchdowns in the Rose Bowl.

Defensively, Ohio State has been equally formidable, boasting a unit that ranks first overall in FBS according to SP+. Their defensive line, led by Jack Sawyer, has been relentless, recording eight sacks against Oregon, which will be crucial in applying pressure on Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers. The Buckeyes' ability to disrupt opposing offenses has been a hallmark of their success, and they will look to exploit any vulnerabilities in the Texas offensive line, which has shown inconsistency throughout the season.

While Texas possesses a top-ranked defense, their recent performance against Arizona State raises concerns. Despite their victory, the Longhorns were outgained 510-to-375 yards and struggled to maintain offensive consistency. This inconsistency could prove costly against an Ohio State team that has been firing on all cylinders. The Buckeyes' ability to capitalize on defensive lapses and their relentless offensive attack make them a strong pick to cover the spread in this high-stakes matchup.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Texas Longhorns Top Player Prop Picks

Jeremiah Smith Over 77.5 Receiving Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Jeremiah Smith has been a revelation for the Ohio State Buckeyes during their playoff run, and his performance against Oregon in the Rose Bowl was nothing short of spectacular. Smith recorded 187 receiving yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to dominate against top-tier defenses. His connection with quarterback Will Howard has been a key factor in Ohio State's offensive success, and with the Buckeyes averaging 8.8 yards per play against Oregon, Smith is poised to continue his explosive form. Texas boasts a strong defense, but Smith's speed and playmaking ability make him a prime candidate to surpass the 77.5 receiving yards line.

Will Howard Over 243.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Will Howard has been instrumental in leading Ohio State's high-powered offense, particularly in their commanding victory over Oregon. Howard threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns in the Rose Bowl, demonstrating his ability to exploit defenses with precision and poise. The Buckeyes' offensive line has provided Howard with the protection needed to connect with his talented receiving corps, including standout freshman Jeremiah Smith. While Texas presents a formidable defensive challenge, Howard's recent performances suggest he is more than capable of exceeding the 243.5 passing yards line, especially given Ohio State's offensive momentum.

Quinn Ewers Under 236.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Quinn Ewers, the former Ohio State signee, has been a pivotal figure for the Texas Longhorns, but he faces a daunting task against a relentless Ohio State defense. The Buckeyes' defensive line, led by Jack Sawyer, has been exceptional, recording eight sacks against Oregon and consistently applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Ewers struggled against Arizona State, where Texas was outgained 510-to-375 yards, and he will need to contend with Ohio State's top-ranked defense that excels in limiting deep passes. Given the Buckeyes' ability to disrupt passing games and Ewers' recent inconsistencies, the under on 236.5 passing yards appears to be a prudent choice.