In 2025, the Longhorns will take against the reigning champion Buckeyes.

As the 2025 college football season draws closer, one matchup stands out on the calendar for fans and analysts alike: the Texas Longhorns will face the reigning national champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes, in what promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of college football’s most storied programs. This game will not only be a major non-conference clash but also a statement opportunity for both teams. Texas, after years of rebuilding under head coach Steve Sarkisian, is looking to assert its dominance, while Ohio State, under Ryan Day, is looking to maintain its position as one of the top programs in the country.

1. The Texas Longhorns: Building for Championship Contention

The Texas Longhorns have been on an upward trajectory under Steve Sarkisian, and by 2025, the program is expected to be firmly in the national title conversation. While Texas has had its fair share of struggles since the Mack Brown era ended, Sarkisian has injected a sense of direction, energy, and discipline into the program. With a combination of top-tier recruits, transfers, and returning talent, the Longhorns are poised to challenge the best of the best in the college football world.

Key Players to Watch

• Quarterback Arch Manning: Arch Manning, the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, is arguably the most anticipated quarterback prospect in years. The 6’4″, 215-pound signal-caller has been touted as the future of Texas football, and by 2025, he is expected to be the starter. Known for his poise, leadership, arm strength, and football IQ, Manning brings an exciting dynamic to the Longhorns’ offense. His ability to read defenses, deliver accurate throws, and manage games under pressure will be crucial for Texas to succeed in this showdown with Ohio State.
• Running Back Jonathan Brooks: While Texas has had some questions about its running back situation, Jonathan Brooks emerged as a key contributor in recent seasons. By 2025, Brooks will be a proven back with the ability to handle a heavy workload. His ability to grind out yards on the ground will be essential in balancing the offensive attack and keeping Ohio State’s defense on its heels.
• Wide Receiver Xavier Worthy: Xavier Worthy has been one of the most dynamic wide receivers in college football, and he will continue to be a major threat in 2025. With his speed, route-running ability, and knack for making big plays, Worthy will be a focal point of the Texas offense. Expect Manning (or Ewers) to look for him often in this high-profile matchup.
• Defensive Line and Linebacker Play: The Texas defense has steadily improved under Sarkisian, and by 2025, the Longhorns are expected to have one of the more formidable defensive fronts in the nation. Defensive tackle Byron Murphy and linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will lead the charge for the Longhorns, and their ability to disrupt Ohio State’s offense will be crucial for Texas to stay competitive in this game.

Texas’ Key Strategy Against Ohio State

In this matchup, Texas will need to execute a balanced game plan, relying on Arch Manning’s ability to control the passing game while Jonathan Brooks keeps the defense honest with his running. The Longhorns’ defense will be tasked with containing Ohio State’s explosive offensive playmakers, which means disrupting the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm early and often. Texas’ defensive line, led by Murphy and others, will need to get consistent pressure on Ohio State’s quarterback and stop the run early to prevent big gains from running back TreVeyon Henderson.

2. The Ohio State Buckeyes: Seeking to Defend Their National Title

The Ohio State Buckeyes are coming off a national championship in 2024, and they are expected to be one of the most dominant teams in college football heading into the 2025 season. Head coach Ryan Day has built a powerhouse in Columbus, consistently competing for Big Ten titles and national championships. With a roster full of NFL-caliber talent, Ohio State will be a formidable opponent for the Longhorns.

Key Players to Watch

• Quarterback Kyle McCord (or New Star): Ohio State’s quarterback situation in 2025 remains somewhat fluid, as Kyle McCord is expected to return for his final season after leading the Buckeyes to a national title. McCord has shown flashes of brilliance, with a strong arm and excellent poise in high-pressure situations. However, Ohio State is known for producing elite quarterbacks, and McCord’s performance in 2025 will be key. If McCord struggles, Ohio State could turn to a young, highly touted prospect to take the reins.
• Running Back TreVeyon Henderson: TreVeyon Henderson is one of the most talented running backs in college football. His combination of speed, vision, and power makes him a lethal weapon in Ohio State’s offense. The Longhorns will need to keep Henderson in check, as he has the ability to break off big runs at any moment. Containing him will be one of Texas’ top priorities.
• Wide Receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka: Ohio State has a wide receiving corps that is among the best in the country, and 2025 will be no exception. Marvin Harrison Jr., the son of NFL legend Marvin Harrison, is one of the top wide receivers in college football. Alongside Egbuka, these two receivers form a terrifying duo that can stretch the field and create mismatches in coverage. The Longhorns will need to keep these two in check to prevent big plays through the air.
• Defensive Line and Pass Rush: On defense, Ohio State has a reputation for producing elite pass rushers. Defensive ends like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, along with a stout defensive line, will look to get consistent pressure on Texas’ quarterback. Disrupting Manning’s rhythm and forcing him into uncomfortable situations will be key for the Buckeyes to slow down Texas’ offensive attack.

Ohio State’s Key Strategy Against Texas

Ohio State will look to exploit its offensive firepower, especially through the air, where Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka will challenge Texas’ secondary. Given their deep receiving corps, Ohio State may look to spread the field and take advantage of any mismatches in coverage. Running back TreVeyon Henderson will also be used extensively to open up the passing game by forcing Texas’ defense to respect the run.

Defensively, Ohio State will aim to stifle Texas’ offense with its elite pass rush and strong secondary. J.T. Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, and the rest of the defensive front will look to disrupt Arch Manning’s timing and make it difficult for the Longhorns to establish a balanced offensive attack. Ohio State’s secondary, with its speed and playmaking ability, will try to limit big plays from Xavier Worthy and the rest of Texas’ wide receivers.

3. Breaking Down the Matchup: Key Factors for Success

Quarterback Play: The X-Factor

Quarterback play will be the biggest X-factor in this game. Arch Manning’s debut season in 2025 will be crucial, as he will be tasked with leading the Longhorns against one of the top defenses in the country. Manning’s ability to stay calm under pressure, read defenses, and make precise throws will determine Texas’ success. If Manning can connect with his playmakers, particularly Xavier Worthy, he will give Texas a fighting chance to hang with the Buckeyes.

On the other hand, Ohio State’s quarterback situation is a bit more settled, with Kyle McCord leading the offense after a national title run. McCord’s ability to make smart decisions and execute Ohio State’s high-powered offense will be key to the Buckeyes’ success. If McCord can find a rhythm early, Texas could find itself in a tough spot.

Defensive Matchup: Containing Elite Playmakers

The Longhorns’ defense will face a tough task in slowing down Ohio State’s high-octane offense. While Texas’ defense has improved in recent years, they’ll need to be at their best to stop the explosive duo of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka, along with the powerful running back TreVeyon Henderson. If Texas can disrupt McCord’s rhythm and limit Ohio State’s big plays, they’ll have a chance to stay in the game.

On the flip side, Ohio State will need to stop Texas’ offense, particularly Arch Manning’s ability to make deep throws. The Buckeyes will likely deploy an aggressive pass rush to try and disrupt Manning’s timing, while their secondary will need to keep a close eye on Xavier Worthy and the other Texas receivers.

The Battle in the Trenches

Both teams have elite defensive and offensive lines, and the battle in the trenches will be a critical aspect of this game. If Texas can establish a solid running game with Jonathan Brooks and give Arch Manning time to throw, they’ll be able to control the pace of the game. Ohio State, meanwhile, will rely on its pass rush and strong defensive line to stifle Texas’ ground game and put pressure on Manning.

4. Prediction: A Hard-Fought, High-Stakes Clash

The 2025 Texas vs. Ohio State game will be one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. While both teams have elite talent and will come in with high expectations, the Longhorns’ ability to execute in all three phases of the game will determine the outcome. If Arch Manning can stay composed and take advantage of his opportunities, Texas has a legitimate shot at pulling off the upset. However, Ohio State’s experience, playmaking ability, and depth across the roster will likely give the Buckeyes the edge in this battle of two football powerhouses.