Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Stephen A. Smith Sends Warning to Texas Fans Ahead of Playoff Game vs. Ohio State

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Jan 2, 2025 3:17 PM ET

The Texas Longhorns won a 39-31 overtime thriller against the Arizona State Sun Devils on New Year's Day during a game in which rising ASU star Cam Skattebo became the biggest story and coach Steve Sarkisian's team was viewed in a disappointing fashion.

Now, the Longhorns have arguably the toughest task remaining in the playoffs with the surging Ohio State Buckeyes on the schedule for Friday, January 10 in Arlington, Texas' College Football Playoffs semi-final game.

On Thursday, ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith sent a warning to Texas fans about the game that has resonated strongly in light of their New Year's struggles.

"Let me get to this game," Smith said to co-hosts Booger McFarland and Chris "Mad Dog" Russo.

"As much as Skattebo, as formidable as he was, he's one dude. One dude! And he gave you nightmares.

"What (is) Ohio State gonna do?" Egbuka, uh, Smith, Henderson and these boys. They've got weapons all over the place for Ohio State. Whatcha gonna do with three? Or four? Cuz Will Howard...He's no slouch right now," Smith continued.

Smith added that he respects and loves Steve Sarkisian as the Longhorns' coach but is not quite sold on the Longhorns averting being blown out by the Buckeyes.

"I'm just saying, Texas has looked sloppy, I think that they've played below expectations, and I'm not going to lie to you, I pray that I'm wrong, I'm scared they're going to get blown out. I'm scared that Ohio State is going to blow them out."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: