Ryan Wingo Starts Over Isaiah Bond in Cotton Bowl Showdown

Freshman wide receiver Ryan Wingo has been named the starter over junior Isaiah Bond for the Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Wingo, who has had a breakout season, will take the field as the Longhorns face Ohio State in a high-stakes College Football Playoff semifinal. Bond, still recovering from injuries sustained during the SEC Championship game, will sit out as Wingo steps into the spotlight.

Wingo’s season has been marked by standout performances, including a career-best 127 receiving yards against UTSA and a 75-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Arch Manning. His contributions have been pivotal in Texas’ journey to the playoffs, with key plays in games against Mississippi State, Oklahoma, and Georgia. In the CFP First Round against Clemson, Wingo added 23 yards on two catches, and in the Peach Bowl against Arizona State, he recorded 33 yards on two receptions.

Ohio State, meanwhile, has shown early dominance in the game, with Quinshon Judkins scoring a 9-yard touchdown on their opening drive. The Buckeyes‘ offense, led by quarterback Will Howard, has exploited Texas’ defensive scheme, particularly targeting the middle of the field. Howard’s connection with Emeka Egbuka has been a key factor, with Egbuka recording 30 receiving yards on the first drive alone.

Texas’ offensive struggles have been evident, with quarterback Quinn Ewers facing consistent pressure from Ohio State’s defense. Ewers was sacked twice in the first two series, highlighting the challenges the Longhorns face in maintaining their offensive rhythm. Ohio State’s defensive strategy, led by JT Tuimoloau, has effectively disrupted Texas’ game plan, forcing early punts and limiting scoring opportunities.

The Cotton Bowl, scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. CT kickoff on ESPN, is a critical matchup for both teams as they vie for a spot in the College Football Playoff title game. With Wingo stepping up in Bond’s absence, Texas will look to overcome Ohio State’s early momentum and secure a victory in this high-stakes showdown.