Arlington, Texas – The 2025 Goodyear Cotton Bowl is set to be an exciting showdown as Texas faces off against Ohio State in the College Football Playoff semifinals this Friday. The event will take place at the renowned AT&T Stadium, a venue that has seen many thrilling football moments.
As the Longhorns and Buckeyes prepare for battle, a good number of players from Texas will be representing Ohio State in the matchup. In the past, Texas has seen some of its best players make the move up north, including notable names like Baron Browning, Jeff Okudah, JK Dobbins, Garrett Wilson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Recently, however, players like Ryan Watts and Quinn Ewers have returned to their home state after their time with Ohio State.
Among the Texas high school football standouts now on the Buckeye roster is James Peoples, a running back from San Antonio’s Veterans Memorial. Texas had shown interest in Peoples, offering him a spot during his junior year, but he ultimately committed to Ohio State in April 2023.
Another Texas talent in the mix is Calvin Simpson-Hunt, a cornerback from Waxahachie. Although Texas did not pursue him aggressively, he has made his mark with two tackles this season for the Buckeyes.
On the defensive side, Payton Pierce from Lovejoy High School in Lucas is part of the Ohio State lineup as a linebacker. He committed to the Buckeyes early and has been a strong asset for the team.
In the special teams department, Jayden Fielding, a kicker from Bradenton, Florida, via League City, Texas, is enjoying a solid season. He has successfully hit 11 out of 15 field goal attempts, including a long of 46 yards.
The Buckeyes also boast Morrow Evans, a long snapper from Houston and Donovan Jackson, an offensive lineman from Bellaire Episcopal, who firmly committed to Ohio State after several visits to Texas.
With the match-up only days away, fans will be eagerly watching how these Texas connections will play out on the big stage. Will they shine for Ohio State, or will the Longhorns take the win on their home turf? Only time will tell as the teams battle it out in Arlington.
