The College Football Playoff Semifinals: A Closer Look at the Matchups
As we usher in the new year, the College Football Playoff is once again at the forefront of sports fans’ minds. The semifinals are set, and four teams are vying for the coveted national title. The excitement is palpable as we prepare for these thrilling matchups.
First up, we have Notre Dame, fresh off a 23-10 victory over Georgia in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. This win has earned them a spot in the Capital One Orange Bowl, where they will face Penn State on January 9 at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcasted on ESPN. Penn State secured their place in the semifinals with a 31-14 win against Boise State in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve.
Meanwhile, Texas had to dig deep to overcome a resilient Arizona State team, eventually triumphing 39-31 in double overtime on New Year’s Day. Their reward is a showdown with Ohio State, who convincingly defeated Oregon 41-21 in the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. This clash will take place on January 10 at 7:30 p.m. ET in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, also on ESPN.
Let’s dive into the details of these semifinal matchups and explore what each team brings to the table.
Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 7 Notre Dame
When: Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. ET. TV: ESPN
Penn State Nittany Lions (13-2)
What we learned in the quarterfinals: Penn State’s quarterback, Drew Allar, is showing signs of reaching his full NFL draft potential. His performance against Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl was a testament to his growth, with an impressive 13.8 yards per pass attempt and three touchdowns on throws of at least 10 yards. If Allar continues to elevate his game, his draft stock will undoubtedly rise.
One NFL GM shared with ESPN, “He possesses a lot of raw talent and plays well within their system. There’s something still amiss though. Nevertheless, he’s finally making big-time throws and demonstrating some of the potential that was previously mentioned. I’m cautiously optimistic about his future.”
X factor: DE Abdul Carter. The Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was injured in the first half against Boise State. His potential return could be a game-changer for Penn State’s defense, which was already elite without him. Coach James Franklin emphasized the importance of player safety but acknowledged Carter’s determination to play if possible.
How Penn State wins: The key to victory lies in making Notre Dame one-dimensional by stifling their running game and forcing them into third-and-long situations. Penn State’s defense must replicate their performance against Boise State, where they limited Ashton Jeanty to his lowest rushing total of the season. This strategy will put pressure on Notre Dame’s quarterback, Riley Leonard, to create explosive plays in the passing game.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish (13-1)
What we learned in the quarterfinals: Notre Dame’s defense lived up to its reputation against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Ranked No. 2 in the FBS in scoring defense, they allowed only a field goal in the first half. Key plays by Adon Shuler and Jaiden Ausberry were instrumental in keeping Georgia at bay. The defense’s ability to force turnovers and pressure the quarterback was crucial to their success.
X factor: Leonard. The Notre Dame offense relied heavily on Leonard’s dual-threat capabilities against Georgia. With the Bulldogs containing their running backs, Leonard’s ability to make key runs and passes was vital. Against Penn State’s formidable defense, Leonard will need to step up even more to secure a victory.
How Notre Dame wins: Notre Dame’s defense must continue to force turnovers and excel on third downs. Pressure on Allar will be essential, and a big play on special teams, like Jayden Harrison‘s kickoff return against Georgia, could tip the scales. Additionally, minimizing penalties and maintaining solid kicking from Mitch Jeter will be crucial.
Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic: No. 5 Texas vs. No. 8 Ohio State
When: Jan. 10, 7:30 p.m. ET. TV: ESPN
Texas Longhorns (13-2)
What we learned in the quarterfinals: Texas has experienced an identity crisis on offense, fluctuating between dominant rushing performances and struggles on the ground. Their ability to establish a consistent rushing attack will be crucial against Ohio State. The potential return of offensive tackle Cameron Williams could provide a much-needed boost.
X factor: TE Gunnar Helm. Helm’s contributions in the win over Arizona State were significant, and his role in the offense will be vital against Ohio State. Coach Steve Sarkisian values the versatility of tight ends in his system, and Helm’s performance could be a game-changer.
How Texas wins: Texas’ top-ranked defense must set the tone by pressuring Ohio State’s quarterback, Will Howard. The Longhorns need to dominate the line of scrimmage, as Michigan did against Ohio State in November. Improvement on the offensive line is essential to their success.
Ohio State Buckeyes (12-2)
What we learned in the quarterfinals: Ohio State’s offense, led by Jeremiah Smith, is a force to be reckoned with. Smith’s explosive performance against Oregon showcased his potential as one of the best players in college football. The Buckeyes’ ability to execute on both sides of the ball was evident in their dominant win.
X factor: TreVeyon Henderson. With Texas likely focusing on stopping Smith, Henderson’s role in the offense becomes even more critical. His consistent performance and potential for explosive plays will be key to Ohio State’s success.
How Ohio State wins: Ohio State must replicate their performance against Oregon, utilizing Smith’s talents and maintaining a strong defense. Pressure on Texas’ quarterback, Quinn Ewers, will be crucial. Howard’s steady play and ability to connect with Smith will be essential for a Buckeyes victory.
- Key Players to Watch: Drew Allar, Abdul Carter, Riley Leonard, Gunnar Helm, Jeremiah Smith, TreVeyon Henderson
- Game Dates: Jan. 9 (Orange Bowl), Jan. 10 (Cotton Bowl)
- Broadcast: ESPN
Originally Written by: ESPN
