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.

Boise State's loss to Penn State in the Playoff quarterfinals underscored a crucial flaw in a system meant to reward conference champions.

I have been a season ticket holder for the majority of the last 17 years, but haven’t been able to attend any bowl games outside of the 2012 Las Vegas Bowl. My wife and I decided this was an opportunity our family could not miss,