On the back end, Texas has allowed only eight passing scores this year and ranks No. 3 in pass defense success rate. All-American cornerback Jahdae Barron had a standout season with five interceptions and 11 pass breakups and is a key cog in the hopes of slowing down Ohio State receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka.

The Ohio State Buckeyes (12-2) face the Texas Longhorns (13-2) in the Cotton Bowl Friday in a College Football Playoff semifinal. Kickoff from AT&T Stadium in Arlington is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN).

Here's what Ohio State's Ryan Day and Texas' Steve Sarkisian said ahead of the Cotton Bowl and College Football Playoff semifinals.