Deep in the heart of Texas, the Buckeyes had to fight, scratch and claw through enemy territory on their way to the national title game.

Ohio State ended the regular season with many questions about its program under coach Ryan Day after the Buckeyes were upset by rival Michigan 13-10 on Nov. 30. Now, the Buckeyes not only are in the College Football Playoff national championship game on Jan.

The Buckeyes beat Texas 28-14 on Friday night to set up a Jan. 20 meeting against the Fighting Irish. Ohio State hasn’t lost since it fell 13-10 to Michigan in November. Notre Dame hasn’t lost since it fell 16-14 to Northern Illinois way back in September.