College Football Playoff Semifinals Preview: Score Predictions for Must-See Games for Ohio State vs. Texas and Notre Dame vs. Penn State…

**College Football Playoff Semifinals Preview: Score Predictions for Must-See Games – Ohio State vs. Texas and Notre Dame vs. Penn State**

The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to deliver two thrilling semifinals that will captivate college football fans across the nation. With the stakes higher than ever, Ohio State will take on Texas, while Notre Dame faces off against Penn State in two pivotal matchups. Here’s a breakdown of each game, along with score predictions for what promises to be an unforgettable day of football.

**Ohio State vs. Texas: A Clash of Titans**

The first semifinal features the high-powered offense of Ohio State, led by quarterback Kyle McCord and star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., against the stingy defense of Texas, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of linebacker Jalen Ford and cornerback Jahdae Barron. Ohio State enters the game as the Big Ten champion, having made a strong case for a spot in the playoff with impressive victories over top-ranked teams. Their offense, averaging 40 points per game, has been explosive, but they’ll face their toughest challenge yet in Texas.

Texas, on the other hand, has proven to be a well-rounded team, boasting a top-five defense and an offense that has been steady, with quarterback Quinn Ewers playing his best football late in the season. The Longhorns’ strong running game, led by Bijan Robinson’s replacement, Jonathan Brooks, will look to control the clock and keep Ohio State’s explosive offense off the field. This clash of styles – Ohio State’s fast-paced, pass-heavy attack vs. Texas’ physical, defense-first mentality – will be one to watch.

**Score Prediction: Ohio State 38, Texas 31**

While Texas’ defense is elite, Ohio State’s offensive firepower is difficult to contain. McCord’s ability to find Harrison and the Buckeyes’ balanced attack should give them the edge in a high-scoring affair. Expect a close game, but in the end, Ohio State’s big-play capability will push them to the win and a spot in the national championship game.

**Notre Dame vs. Penn State: A Defensive Battle**

In the other semifinal, two of the most storied programs in college football, Notre Dame and Penn State, will battle for a chance to play for the national title. Both teams come into this game with powerful defenses, and the game is expected to be a grind, with each squad looking to impose its will.

Notre Dame’s offense, led by quarterback Sam Hartman, has been explosive at times but inconsistent. The Fighting Irish will need to find a way to get the ball in the hands of their playmakers, like running back Audric Estime and wide receiver Tobias Merriweather. Defensively, the Irish will lean on their front seven to stop Penn State’s potent rushing attack.

Penn State, meanwhile, has one of the best defenses in the country, led by linebacker Abdul Carter and a secondary that can shut down the pass. Offensively, the Nittany Lions have leaned on running back Nicholas Singleton, who will be key in helping them control the tempo of the game.

**Score Prediction: Penn State 24, Notre Dame 17**

In a defensive slugfest, Penn State’s superior defense and balanced offensive attack should be enough to edge out Notre Dame. Expect a low-scoring, hard-hitting game, but the Nittany Lions will pull ahead late with key turnovers and a dominant defensive performance.

**Conclusion**

With these two exciting matchups, the 2024 College Football Playoff semifinals promise to be a showcase of college football’s best. Ohio State vs. Texas offers a high-scoring clash of styles, while Notre Dame vs. Penn State is shaping up to be a classic defensive battle. One thing is for sure – both games will have major implications for who advances to the national championship and cements their legacy as college football’s best.