What is the price of Cotton Bowl tickets? Texas versus Ohio State

The Cotton Bowl Classic, one of the most iconic bowl games in college football, consistently draws attention for its rich history, exciting matchups, and the chance for college football teams to showcase their talents on a national stage. When two powerhouse programs like Texas Longhorns and Ohio State Buckeyes are involved, it only heightens the anticipation. Fans of both teams, along with college football enthusiasts from across the country, are eager to secure tickets to witness this marquee event.

If you’re wondering about the price of Cotton Bowl tickets for a matchup between Texas and Ohio State, there are several factors to consider. The cost of tickets to the Cotton Bowl can vary widely based on factors like seat location, demand, and whether you’re purchasing directly from the stadium, through a secondary market, or as part of a travel package. In this article, we will explore the different ticket options available for the Cotton Bowl, how much tickets might cost for a game between these two teams, and the overall experience you can expect at the stadium.

What Is the Cotton Bowl Classic?

The Cotton Bowl Classic is a longstanding tradition in college football. Played annually at the AT&T Stadium (commonly referred to as the “Jerry Dome”) in Arlington, Texas, this bowl game is often considered one of the premier postseason matchups in college football. It typically features teams from the Big 12 and SEC, although it can also host teams from other major conferences when necessary.

Founded in 1937, the Cotton Bowl has a rich history, with memorable moments, legendary players, and unforgettable games. Teams like Texas, Ohio State, Alabama, and USC have all graced the field in this historic game. In recent years, the game has become a fixture of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, offering a chance for two elite teams to compete for national glory. The 2024-25 Cotton Bowl could be especially exciting if a matchup between the Longhorns and the Buckeyes comes to fruition, as both programs have passionate fan bases and a history of competing for national championships.

Ticket Pricing for Cotton Bowl: General Overview

The price of tickets to the Cotton Bowl can fluctuate based on several factors, including the teams involved, the seating section, and the availability of tickets. To provide an overview, here are some general guidelines for ticket prices:

1. Face Value Tickets:
   • Tickets directly purchased from the Cotton Bowl or AT&T Stadium (via official sources such as the stadium’s box office or the event’s official website) usually range in price depending on the seat location. For major matchups such as Texas vs. Ohio State, tickets can start in the range of $50–$100 for upper-level seats (also known as “nosebleed” sections).
   • Mid-level seats typically cost between $150–$250, and seats closer to the field in the lower level or club sections can range from $250 to $500 or more. These prices will be impacted by the demand for tickets, with prices likely increasing as the game day approaches.
2. Premium Seating and Suites:
   • For fans looking for an upscale experience, there are options like suite tickets and club level seats, which offer additional amenities like premium food and beverages, exclusive entrances, and access to special lounges. Suite tickets for the Cotton Bowl can range from $5,000–$20,000 or more depending on the size and location of the suite.
   • For those wanting an elite view of the game, club level seats typically cost around $250–$500, but prices can increase dramatically if the game is particularly high-profile, such as a showdown between Texas and Ohio State. These premium experiences often sell out fast, so securing tickets well in advance is highly recommended.
3. Secondary Market Prices:
   • Tickets for high-demand games such as a Cotton Bowl featuring Texas and Ohio State often make their way to the secondary ticket market. Platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats allow fans to resell their tickets, which can drive up the price, especially as the game day approaches and tickets become more limited.
   • On the secondary market, ticket prices can vary greatly depending on the seat location, availability, and demand. For premium matchups like Texas vs. Ohio State, prices for lower-level seats near the 50-yard line could range from $300 to $1,000 or higher, while upper-level tickets might still be available for $100–$200. Prices could also increase closer to the day of the game if demand remains high.
4. Student and Group Discounts:
   • Some fans may be able to secure discounted tickets for the Cotton Bowl if they are students or part of a large group. For instance, student tickets may be available for $25–$50 (depending on availability), though these tickets are usually limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
   • Group discounts can also be found for fans purchasing multiple tickets at once. Group rates vary, but organizers can often negotiate better prices, especially if they are purchasing a large block of tickets. These discounts might apply to fan clubs, alumni associations, and large families attending the game together.

Factors That Influence Cotton Bowl Ticket Prices

When it comes to determining the price of Cotton Bowl tickets, several factors come into play. Let’s explore the key elements that can influence how much fans will pay for tickets to a Texas vs. Ohio State matchup:

1. Teams Involved:
   • One of the biggest determinants of ticket prices is the teams involved in the matchup. The Texas Longhorns and Ohio State Buckeyes are two of the most storied programs in college football, each with large and passionate fan bases. This creates high demand for tickets, which drives up prices.
   • A game between Texas and Ohio State has the potential to be a high-profile matchup, especially if both teams are competing for a College Football Playoff berth or a national championship. In this case, expect prices to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
2. Seating Location:
   • The seat you choose plays a significant role in the price of your Cotton Bowl ticket. Seats that offer the best views of the field, such as those in the lower bowl or club level, are the most expensive. In contrast, seats further from the action, such as those in the upper levels, are generally more affordable.
   • For fans looking for the best value, seats in the upper bowl or end zone sections tend to be the most economical. These seats can still offer a great view of the game, but without the steep premium price attached to closer seats.
3. Timing of Purchase:
   • The price of Cotton Bowl tickets can fluctuate depending on when you purchase them. Tickets sold directly by the event’s official channels may be more affordable early on in the sales process, but as the game draws near and demand increases, prices may rise.
   • Buying tickets in advance is often the best way to secure a good deal. As the game approaches, secondary market prices may continue to climb, particularly if the matchup is expected to be a sellout.
4. Location of the Game:
   • Since the Cotton Bowl is played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, fans of both Texas and Ohio State may need to consider additional costs such as travel, accommodations, and parking. The proximity of AT&T Stadium to major airports and the fact that it’s a centrally located venue in the Dallas-Fort Worth area helps make it accessible to a wide range of fans, but it also means that lodging and travel expenses may add up for those attending the game.
5. Postseason Significance:
   • The postseason significance of the game plays a major role in ticket prices. For instance, if the Cotton Bowl is part of the College Football Playoff, it is considered a more prestigious game with a direct route to the National Championship on the line. In this case, ticket prices will be much higher due to the high stakes and fan interest.

Tips for Securing Cotton Bowl Tickets

If you’re planning on attending the Cotton Bowl, especially for a highly anticipated matchup like Texas vs. Ohio State, here are a few tips to help you secure tickets:

1. Buy Early: The earlier you buy your tickets, the better chance you have of securing them at a lower price. Official tickets through the Cotton Bowl or AT&T Stadium will be cheaper than last-minute purchases on the secondary market.
2. Consider a Package: If you’re traveling from out of town, consider purchasing a travel package that includes both tickets and accommodations. These packages are often available through the event organizers and can offer savings compared to buying each separately.
3. Monitor Secondary Market Platforms: If you’re unable to secure tickets through official channels, keep an eye on secondary market platforms like StubHub and SeatGeek for deals. While prices can fluctuate, you might be able to find affordable tickets closer to game day.
4. Stay Flexible: Ticket prices may be lower in certain sections of the stadium, so be open to sitting in a different area if you’re looking to save money.