Ohio State triumphs over top-ranked Texas in a 14-7 contest, thanks to their strong defense in the No. 3 spot.
Ohio State Buckeyes Defeat Top-Ranked Texas Longhorns in Thrilling Opener
In a highly anticipated matchup between the third-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes and the top-ranked Texas Longhorns, it was the Buckeyes who emerged victorious, winning 14-7.
Julian Sayin, in his first collegiate start as the Ohio State quarterback, led the Buckeyes to a two-score advantage early in the fourth quarter with a 40-yard touchdown pass to Carnell Tate. Sayin completed 13 of 20 passes for 126 yards on the day, with his best pass coming with 13:08 remaining in the game.
Ohio State's defense played a crucial role in the victory, containing Arch Manning for three quarters. Manning completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Texas' defense forced a three-and-out, giving them a chance to tie, but Jack Endries was stopped by Caleb Downs 1 yard short of a first down at the Buckeyes 47, ending hopes of a comeback.
The Buckeyes' defense also made several key defensive stops in the red zone, with Davison Igbinosun breaking up a pass intended for Parker Livingstone and Caden Curry and Lorenzo Styles Jr. stopping Manning on a QB sneak in the third quarter.
Texas scored a touchdown with 3:28 remaining in the fourth quarter, but ultimately fell short. The Longhorns' 11-game winning streak in true road games was snapped in the loss.
This was the fourth time the No. 1 team in the AP preseason poll has met the previous season's national champion in the opener. The defending champ has won the last three.
With the victory, Ohio State should take over the top spot in the AP poll. To stay updated on the AP Top 25 college football poll, sign up here and here.
Arch Manning acknowledged that Texas' performance was not good enough and that he needs to play better for them to win. Texas hosts San Jose State on Sept. 6, while Ohio State hosts Grambling State on the same day.
