Texas Longhorns Embrace Underdog Role Ahead of Semifinal Showdown Against Ohio State
The College Football Playoff has taken a dramatic turn for the Texas Longhorns, who began the quarterfinal stage as favorites to claim the national championship. Now, after surviving a grueling 39-31 double-overtime victory against Arizona State and watching Ohio State dismantle Oregon in a 41-21 rout, Texas finds itself as the clear underdog heading into the semifinals.
Ohio State is currently a six-point favorite over Texas, a reality Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian appears to be leveraging as motivational fuel. Speaking to reporters on Friday afternoon, Sarkisian addressed the situation head-on.
“Clearly, we’re massive underdogs. Nobody’s gonna give us a shot,” Sarkisian remarked, signaling the uphill battle his team faces.
In a further nod to the Buckeyes’ dominance, Sarkisian didn’t mince words about the challenge ahead: “This is the best team in college football, and we’re gonna have to make sure that we put our best foot forward to give ourselves a chance to win the game.”
It’s hard to dispute his assessment. Ohio State has been a juggernaut throughout the playoff, opening with a commanding 42-17 victory over Tennessee before steamrolling the previously undefeated Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl. These performances have propelled the Buckeyes to the forefront of championship predictions, making them the new favorites to claim the title.
However, it’s worth noting that just days ago, Texas held that same distinction as title favorites. The Longhorns are now looking to channel their underdog status into a statement performance. Coaches often emphasize perceived slights to galvanize their teams, and Sarkisian’s remarks seem designed to rally his players against the odds.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see how it all plays out. The highly anticipated semifinal clash between Texas and Ohio State kicks off on Friday, Jan. 10, at 7:30 p.m. ET. Will the Longhorns defy expectations, or will the Buckeyes’ dominance continue? The stage is set for a thrilling battle.
