Texas Erases 20 Point Deficit to Stun Top Ranked Ohio State

A Shocking Collapse in Austin

Ohio State seemed fully in command for more than three quarters on Saturday night. The Buckeyes held a 23-3 advantage midway through the third quarter after forcing Texas into a three and out, looking ready to earn a third victory over the Longhorns in three seasons.

Then the game completely flipped. Texas responded with three straight touchdown drives, each covering 12 or more plays. The Longhorns punched in the winning score on third and goal with only 25 seconds remaining to secure a 24-23 upset.

The defeat ended a remarkable run for Ohio State, which had won 115 straight games when holding a 20 point lead.

Missed Chances and Offensive Stalls

The fourth quarter was a disaster for Ohio State on both sides of the ball. The offense managed just 49 total yards in the final frame, while kicker Joe McGuire missed a 45 yard field goal with just over four minutes remaining that would have provided a two score cushion.

The collapse also overshadowed a massive game from wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith racked up 164 receiving yards, moving into second place in school history with 2,783 career yards, just 116 yards behind Michael Jenkins. However, Smith did not record a single reception in the final quarter.

Head coach Ryan Day did not hide his disappointment after the final whistle. Day said that the team had Texas on the ropes and failed to finish, adding that the Buckeyes must own everything that went wrong. Center Carson Hinzman admitted the loss hurt, but noted the team still has plenty of football ahead to achieve its goals.

What it means for the next game

Kent State Golden Flashes at Ohio State Buckeyes (College Football, Sat, 19 Sep): Ohio State Buckeyes win 99%, Kent State Golden Flashes win 1%; projected score Ohio State Buckeyes 54, Kent State Golden Flashes 2. Our safest pick: Under 66.5 points.

UTSA Roadrunners at Texas Longhorns (College Football, Sun, 20 Sep): Texas Longhorns win 98%, UTSA Roadrunners win 2%; projected score Texas Longhorns 43, UTSA Roadrunners 14. Our safest pick: UTSA +39.5.