Paul Finebaum Fires Up Controversy: Boldly Predicts Texas Will Top Ohio State in Blockbuster Opener

In a move that has stirred the college football world, ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum made waves this week by boldly proclaiming that the Texas Longhorns will defeat the Ohio State Buckeyes in their highly anticipated season opener. The comment, made during a national radio broadcast, has sent shockwaves through fanbases and reignited debates about which powerhouse program is better prepared for 2025 glory.

His prediction immediately sparked fierce reactions across the college football landscape. Buckeye fans took to social media to voice their outrage, accusing Finebaum of SEC bias and disrespecting a perennial Big Ten juggernaut. Texas fans, meanwhile, cheered the analyst’s bold support, with some already declaring it the dawn of a new Longhorn dynasty.

For Texas, this is more than just a game — it’s a statement opportunity. After years of “Is Texas back?” jokes and underwhelming finishes, head coach Steve Sarkisian has built a roster teeming with blue-chip talent and hungry veterans. With Quinn Ewers gone to the NFL, all eyes are on his successor — a young, mobile quarterback with a rocket arm and poise beyond his years.

Sarkisian’s offense is expected to be dynamic and explosive, led by a deep receiver corps and a veteran offensive line. The defense, often Texas’ Achilles heel in the past, has taken strides forward with key transfers and maturing homegrown talent. According to Finebaum, this is exactly why he has faith in the Longhorns.

Ohio State, on the other hand, enters the 2025 season with familiar expectations: win the Big Ten, make the College Football Playoff, and beat Michigan. But before they can worry about The Game, the Buckeyes face one of the toughest openers on their schedule in years.

Head coach Ryan Day has built a defensive juggernaut, and the Buckeyes’ secondary is among the nation’s best. While they too face a quarterback transition, early signs from camp suggest that the new starter is already commanding the offense with confidence. Marvin Harrison Jr.’s departure leaves big shoes to fill, but Ohio State never has a shortage of playmakers.

This game is more than just an early-season measuring stick — it’s a potential playoff decider. With the expanded College Football Playoff format debuting this year, strength of schedule matters more than ever. A win in this game could provide critical momentum and positioning come December.

Indeed, this is Texas first season as a full SEC member, and a win over Ohio State would be the perfect introduction. It would validate years of recruiting, investment, and coaching hires — while simultaneously casting a shadow over one of the sport’s most stable giants.