Despite the betting odds, ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) system lists the Longhorns as the projected winner. The computer-generated system, which calculates win probability, strength of schedule and team statistics, gives Texas a 50.7% chance to win the game and advance to the national title match.

The first College Football Playoff semifinal is set as (8) Ohio State and (5) Texas will meet in the Cotton Bowl on Friday, Jan. 10 with a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship on the line. This will be just the fourth meeting all-time, and the first since 2009, between two of the sport's most storied program.