Both teams roll into Arlington with a pair of losses this year. The Buckeyes lost to Oregon and rival Michigan while the Horns lost to Georgia twice, including in the SEC title game.

Texas football has been plagued by special teams issues all season and, lately, kicker Bert Auburn's performance has been drawing scrutiny.

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.

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian described his Longhorns as “massive underdogs” against an on-fire Ohio State team last week. On the eve of Texas’ Cotton Bowl showdown against those Buckeyes, Sarkisian hardly softened his stance.

Ohio State faithful travel just as well, or better, than Texas fans so Longhorns will be hard-pressed for any advantage at AT&T Stadium.

Unlike last night’s College Football Playoff matchup, both programs participating in Friday's second semifinal can at least claim national championships in the 21st century. But they, too, have legions of devoted followers who are not exactly known for their patience when it comes to title aspirations.