The CFP Semifinals wrap up on Friday when Ohio State (-5.5) clashes with Texas in the Cotton Bowl. Both averaging over 34-points or more per game, an offensive showcase is expected on the field.
Below, I've highlighted three player props for Ohio State vs Texas, featuring Will Howard to maintain his elite postseason reputation and Matthew Golden to build off one of the best performances of his college career.
Prop #1: Will howard OVER 1.5 Passing Touchdowns (-170)
Will Howard has established himself as a reliable quarterback in a Power Five conference across this season. Last time out, the senior recorded 319 yards and a trio of touchdowns while up against the undefeated Oregon Ducks. In the first round, he completed 82.8% of his passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns. If those stats don't show he's come to compete, I don't know what does.
Howard has hit the OVER on this mark in 11 of his last 12 games with the lone exception being that brutal beat by Michigan. Texas has allowed 256 passing yards over its last three games, a significant drop in its 166.1 yards per game season average.
Prop #2: Matthew golden OVER 64.5 Receiving Yards (-114)
A staple to the Texas offense, Golden leads the Longhorns with 936 yards and nine touchdowns. The junior is fresh off one of his best showings, snagging 149 yards with a career-best 54-yard catch. Golden has eclipsed 64.5 receiving yards in four of his last five performances, averaging a whopping 103.8 yards in that span.
It'll be difficult to accomplish against the nation's best passing defense. But, I suspect Golden will take on the brunt of the responsibility in this semifinal campaign and continue to be the guy Quinn Ewers eye flash to.
prop #3: jeremiah smith anytime TD (-165)
I'm tailing my friend David Caraviello's pick in his Cotton Bowl preview, which predicts Smith to upkeep his three-game touchdown streak. The freshman is responsible for four of Ohio State's 11 touchdowns in the postseason, posting a pair of scores across the first round and quarterfinals. Smith has cashed the Anytime TD bet in 10 of his last 13 meetings.
