The College Football Playoff Semifinals: A Closer Look at the Matchups
As the calendar flips to a new year, college football fans are treated to a familiar spectacle: the College Football Playoff semifinals. This year, four teams remain in the hunt for the coveted national title, and the stage is set for some thrilling matchups.
In the Allstate Sugar Bowl, Notre Dame secured their spot in the semifinals with a 23-10 victory over Georgia. This win sets up a showdown with Penn State in the Capital One Orange Bowl on January 9th at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcasted on ESPN. Penn State earned their place by defeating Boise State 31-14 in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve.
Meanwhile, Texas had to dig deep to overcome a resilient Arizona State team, winning 39-31 in double overtime on New Year’s Day. Their reward is a clash with Ohio State, who convincingly beat Oregon 41-21 in the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. This matchup will take place on January 10th at 7:30 p.m. ET in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, also on ESPN.
Let’s dive into the details of these exciting semifinal matchups.
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 rise alongside Penn State’s success.
One NFL GM commented, “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: Defensive end Abdul Carter. The Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year was injured in the first half against Boise State, and his potential return could be a game-changer. Penn State’s defense was formidable without him, but having their best edge rusher back would be a significant boost.
How Penn State wins: The key for Penn State is to make Notre Dame one-dimensional by stifling their running game and forcing them into third-and-long situations. If they can replicate their defensive performance against Boise State, Notre Dame’s quarterback, Riley Leonard, will face a challenging day trying to create explosive plays.
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 RJ Oben were instrumental in securing the victory.
X factor: Riley Leonard. The Notre Dame offense relied heavily on Leonard’s dual-threat capabilities against Georgia. With Penn State’s strong run defense, Leonard may need to shoulder even more of the offensive load in the Orange Bowl.
How Notre Dame wins: Notre Dame’s defense must continue to force turnovers and excel on third downs. Pressure on Allar will be crucial, and a big play on special teams, like Jayden Harrison‘s kickoff return against Georgia, could tip the scales in their favor.
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 in recent weeks. Their rushing attack has been inconsistent, and they will need a stronger performance against Ohio State. The health of offensive tackle Cameron Williams could be a factor in their success.
X factor: Tight end Gunnar Helm. Helm has been a key contributor in Texas’ recent victories, and his role in the offense will be crucial against Ohio State.
How Texas wins: Texas’ defense, ranked No. 1 in the country, must dominate the line of scrimmage and pressure Ohio State’s quarterback, Will Howard. Improving their offensive line play will also be essential for 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 standout performance against Oregon showcased his potential as one of the best players in college football.
X factor: Running back TreVeyon Henderson. If Texas focuses on stopping Smith, Henderson’s ability to exploit openings in the defense will be crucial.
How Ohio State wins: Ohio State needs to replicate their dominant performance against Oregon. A strong showing from Smith and consistent pressure on Texas’ quarterback, Quinn Ewers, will be key to their success.
- Key Matchups: Penn State vs. Notre Dame, Texas vs. Ohio State
- Game Dates: January 9th and 10th
- Broadcast: ESPN
Originally Written by: ESPN
