Overview

• Texas travels to Ohio Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 30, for a top‑three matchup that revisits January’s Cotton Bowl, which Ohio State won 28-14.
• BetMGM lists Ohio State as a 2.5‑point favorite at home with a -135 moneyline and a 47.5 over/under.
• Forecasts split on the outcome, with Dimers.com giving Ohio State a 52% win probability and ESPN assigning Texas a 53.3% chance.
• Quarterback storylines headline the game as Texas starts Arch Manning and Ohio State turns to new starter Julian Sayin, supported by playmakers Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, tight end Max Klare, and star safety Caleb Downs.
• The matchup is cast as the opening Big Ten–SEC measuring stick under the expanded 12‑team CFP, preceding Oklahoma–Michigan on Sept. 6 and Alabama–Wisconsin on Sept. 13.