Jack Sawyer solidified his place in Ohio State history with a decisive play against Texas during the College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. His scoop-and-score touchdown secured a 28-14 victory for the Buckeyes, earning them a spot in the CFP National Championship. The defensive end’s emotional celebration on the field reflected the fulfilment of his lifelong dream of becoming a standout in Ohio State football history.
The Defining Moment
Ohio State held a seven-point lead against Texas late in the fourth quarter. The Longhorns, striving to equalise, reached a critical fourth-and-goal situation from the 8-yard line with just over two minutes left in the game.
Sawyer broke through Texas’ offensive line, surging past right tackle Cameron Williams and closing in on quarterback Quinn Ewers. Notably, Ewers and Sawyer had once shared both a team and living space as former Ohio State teammates.
As Sawyer struck Ewers from behind, the ball was jarred loose and hit the turf. Without hesitation, Sawyer scooped it up and sprinted 83 yards to score a touchdown, effectively sealing the game. The dramatic play marked the longest fumble recovery in the history of both the CFP and the Cotton Bowl.
Overwhelmed by the magnitude of the moment, Sawyer described his mind going blank as he ran the length of the field for the game-winning score.
Ohio State’s Victory Secured
The Buckeyes’ 28-14 win was cemented by Sawyer’s game-sealing touchdown, drawing widespread praise from the coaching staff. Head coach Ryan Day emphasised that the defensive play was nothing short of legendary and would forever be remembered in Ohio State’s football legacy.
The victory advanced Ohio State to face Notre Dame in the CFP final on 20 January, with expectations rising after their dominant defensive performance.
Also Read: Notre Dame Edges Penn State 27-24 in Dramatic Orange Bowl, Advances to National Championship
Sawyer’s Return for Redemption
Sawyer had returned for his senior season, motivated by a desire to finish his college career with a national championship after previously experiencing disappointment. Though he had considered pursuing his NFL dreams earlier, he remained with the Buckeyes, determined to win a title.
The Buckeyes’ prior season had ended with a disappointing Cotton Bowl loss to Missouri, amplifying Sawyer’s resolve to make a difference in his final year. His leadership throughout the playoff run reflected his personal mission to bring success back to Ohio State.
Resilience After Setbacks
Earlier in the season, Sawyer nearly made a game-changing play against Michigan. He intercepted a pass near the goal line during the fourth quarter but was left disheartened as the Buckeyes failed to capitalise on the turnover. Michigan ultimately secured a narrow 13-10 victory with a last-second field goal.
The game ended with Michigan players celebrating by planting their flag at midfield in Ohio Stadium, a scene that visibly frustrated Sawyer and his teammates. The emotional fallout from this defeat further fuelled the Buckeyes’ determination heading into the playoffs. Sawyer’s defining play against Texas reflected his ability to rise above past setbacks and deliver when it mattered most.
A Defensive Masterclass
Sawyer’s consistent dominance throughout the playoffs underscored his impact. He became the first FBS player in a decade to record multiple pass breakups and a sack in three consecutive games.
His performance against Texas was no different. Constantly pressuring Ewers, he disrupted the Longhorns’ passing game and ultimately sealed the win with his strip sack.
The Buckeyes’ defensive strength was evident throughout the game. On a critical second-and-goal from the 1-yard line, safety Lathan Ransom tackled Texas running back Quintrevion Wisner for a 7-yard loss, shifting momentum in Ohio State’s favour.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian defended his aggressive play-calling despite the costly mistakes, explaining that the team aimed for a touchdown but failed due to blocking breakdowns.
Offensive Contributions
While the Buckeyes’ defense shone, the offensive unit also played a crucial role. Running back Quinshon Judkins scored two rushing touchdowns, while quarterback Will Howard threw for 289 yards, adding one touchdown and one interception.
Judkins’ second score came from a determined 1-yard run, capping off a 13-play, 88-yard drive. Howard also contributed with a critical fourth-and-2 conversion, scrambling for 18 yards to extend a pivotal drive.
Sawyer’s defensive heroics, however, remained the defining moment of the game, preventing Texas from capitalising on their final red-zone opportunity.
Texas’ Late Effort Falls Short
Quinn Ewers performed solidly despite the game’s outcome, throwing for 283 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. He guided Texas to the Ohio State 1-yard line late in the fourth quarter, but critical errors halted their momentum.
Wisner’s 7-yard loss and Sawyer’s game-winning defensive play ultimately ended Texas’ hopes of a comeback. Ewers later acknowledged the game-changing moment, crediting Sawyer’s play rather than any personal mistake for the fumble.
Eyes on the National Championship
Ohio State now turns its focus to the CFP National Championship against Notre Dame on 20 January in Atlanta. The Buckeyes are just one victory away from securing the national title, with Sawyer’s leadership playing a pivotal role in their success.
Coach Ryan Day highlighted Sawyer’s deep connection to the program, emphasising how the defensive star had always aspired for such a heroic moment.
Sawyer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent Ohio State, sharing his strong emotional bond with the team and the city of Columbus. With just one game remaining, he aims to complete his collegiate career by leading the Buckeyes to a championship and solidifying his legacy as an Ohio State icon.
