TLDR: In a gripping College Football Playoff semifinal matchup, the University of Texas faced the Washington Huskies, ultimately losing 37-31 despite a valiant comeback effort. The Longhorns, ranked third, contended fiercely against the second-ranked Huskies. Washington’s Grady Gross extended their lead with a field goal, placing the Huskies ahead at 37-28. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers attempted to spearhead a remarkable rally. After moving Texas into the red zone, they settled for a field goal, narrowing the gap to 37-31. Despite challenges, such as a failed onside kick attempt, the Longhorn defense held strong, forcing a late Husky punt. Following interference, Texas regained possession, setting up a tense final drive. With no timeouts left, Ewers managed a 41-yard pass to Jordan Whittington, advancing Texas considerably. Yet, as the clock wound down, an incomplete pass and a decisive defensive stop by Washington dashed Texas’s hopes. The game concluded with Ewers’ final pass being swatted away, ending Texas’s distinguished season.

The University of Texas’s attempt to secure a spot in the national championship game ended in disappointment as the Longhorns fell short in a 37-31 battle against the Washington Huskies. Despite being ranked third, Texas faced formidable competition from the second-ranked Washington team, who ultimately held the upper hand in this College Football Playoff semifinal matchup. Grady Gross of Washington widened the gap with a pivotal 27-yard field goal in the final quarter, setting the stage at 37-28.

Texas, starting from their own 25-yard line, saw quarterback Quinn Ewers initiate a determined drive aimed at rallying his team. Through strategic plays, Ewers advanced the Longhorns into scoring territory. Despite the drive stalling momentarily, place kicker Bert Auburn managed a 25-yard field goal, tying him for the second-highest number of field goals in a Big 12 season. With a mere 1:09 remaining, Texas reduced the deficit to 37-31 but faced the daunting task of reclaiming possession.

An onside kick attempt unfortunately fell through, yet the Longhorns’ defense stood their ground. Under linebacker Jaylen Ford’s leadership, who achieved a game-high 10 tackles, and Byron Murphy II’s historic rushing touchdown for a defensive lineman in Texas’s bowl history, Texas forced the Huskies to punt once more. This defensive tenacity enabled the Longhorns to regain possession, benefiting from a critical punt interference call which improved their starting field position to the 31-yard line.

Without a safety net of timeouts, Texas’s offensive squad headed back on the field for a last-ditch effort. Ewers’s accurate 41-yard pass to receiver Jordan Whittington signified significant progress, but with the clock ticking down, the stakes were high. Following his impressive play, Ewers connected with Jaydon Blue for a 16-yard gain, putting Texas within striking distance. Time constraints and pressure led to a failed completion and a pivotal Washington timeout.

The contest reached its climax with Ewers directing his last effort at Adonai Mitchell in the end zone. This final play was marked by the Huskies’ defensive resilience, as Mishael Powell’s pressure disrupted Ewers’s attempt. With one last shot remaining, the ball found its target but was expertly deflected by Makell Esteen in the end zone, sealing the Longhorns’ fate and ending what was arguably one of the most memorable seasons in Texas football history.

Ultimately, the Longhorns, clocking in at a commendable 12-2 record, showcased their talent and determination throughout the season. Despite the end-of-game disappointment, they maintained a tenacious spirit that honored their rich football tradition. Fans across Texas and beyond witnessed a team that battled hard until the very last second, leaving an indelible mark on the 2023-2024 college football season.