Ohio State's early dominance in the College Football Playoff has created a new hurdle on its road to a national title.

The Longhorns are one of best five teams in college football, without question. Flawed, yes. Brilliant at times, yes. But it won't be enough.

On the back end, Texas has allowed only eight passing scores this year and ranks No. 3 in pass defense success rate. All-American cornerback Jahdae Barron had a standout season with five interceptions and 11 pass breakups and is a key cog in the hopes of slowing down Ohio State receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka.

Franklin spoke to the media Wednesday morning at a joint press conference with Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman.

James Franklin has sent a message to Notre Dame and the college football world ahead of Penn State’s semifinal duel in the Orange Bowl on Thursday night. The 52-year-old, who is in his 11th season with Penn State and has the program on the doorstep of its first national championship appearance since 1986,