Eric Boggs
The Cotton Bowl has long been a stage for college football’s best to shine, and Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is ready for the challenge as the Buckeyes prepare to face Texas. Speaking at a pre-game press conference, Day expressed his appreciation for the event’s prestige and hospitality while emphasizing his team’s focus heading into Friday’s game.
“The Cotton Bowl does a great job in their hospitality,” Day said. “Everybody there takes a lot of pride in the bowl, and it’s a great setting. I have a tremendous amount of respect for Texas, Coach [Steve] Sarkisian, his staff, and their players. It’s going to be a great environment, and we’re very excited to play in the game.”
This season, Day has delegated play-calling duties, enabling him to focus on broader team development—an approach that has been particularly beneficial during playoff preparation.
“In the playoffs, I’ve been able to step aside from some of those other things and really get more involved with football,” he explained. “Having Jim Knowles and Chip Kelly here has allowed me to step back and look at things with a wider lens, which has been very important this season.”
Ohio State’s defense faces a significant challenge in Texas’ explosive offense. Day acknowledged the talent of Texas’ offensive line and skill players, as well as the strategic acumen of head coach Sarkisian.
“Our defensive staff will be working around the clock to put together a great plan,” Day said. “We need to execute and focus on the process. Texas’ offense is explosive, and we’ve got to mix what we’ve done well with some new wrinkles to counter their attack.”Staying Grounded Amid Rising Expectations
Despite entering the College Football Playoff with doubters, the Buckeyes now find themselves as favorites for the national title. Day stressed the importance of maintaining focus and consistency, urging his players to block out external noise.
“Nothing that’s happened in the past has anything to do with our preparation now,” Day said. “Our motivation is to keep this team together for one more week. These guys care a lot about each other, and our focus is on executing and preparing the best we can for Friday night.”
Ohio State’s defense will contend with Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, a former Buckeye. Day praised Ewers’ talent but downplayed the personal narrative.
“His ability to throw the ball is off the charts,” Day said. “He’s smart, accurate, and has won big games. We know he’ll do everything to win, and it’ll be a great challenge for our defense. But this isn’t about one player. It’s about executing our game plan.”
Several Buckeyes have emerged as pivotal contributors this season. Quarterback Will Howard’s growing confidence has translated to strong performances, while offensive lineman Donovan Jackson’s move to tackle highlights his leadership and adaptability.
“Donovan has embraced the change for the team and has become a very good tackle,” Day said. “He’s increased his value exponentially, and his work in pass protection will be crucial against Texas’ pass rushers.”
Ohio State’s journey to the Cotton Bowl reflects a season of growth and resilience. Day highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum, drawing parallels to NFL playoff runs.
“This isn’t like a bowl game; these are game weeks,” Day said. “We have momentum now, but it’s our job to keep it. It’s about peaking at the right time and sustaining it.”
Returning to AT&T Stadium, where Ohio State won its 2015 national championship, adds a nostalgic element, but Day insists past success has no bearing on the current task.
“It’s a great venue, and we’ve had a lot of great games there,” Day said. “But none of that matters. We have to focus on playing on the field this Friday.”
As the Buckeyes prepare for what promises to be a thrilling showdown against the Longhorns, Day’s message to his team is clear: stay disciplined, stay focused, and seize the moment.
