Cotton Bowl weather update: Officials release statement, prepared for 'contingencies' ahead of Texas vs. Ohio State

The Cotton Bowl released a statement Tuesday night confirming it is monitoring the pending weather in the Dallas Area. Kickoff between Texas and Ohio State is still set for Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Bowl officials are keeping tabs on the forecast, which is calling for 3-6 inches of snow in Arlington on Friday. The Cotton Bowl is in touch with the CFP, as well as officials in the city, to make sure it’s getting the up-to-date information.

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While the staff is preparing for “contingencies,” the Cotton Bowl noted the forecast is improving. As a result, the game is still on schedule and the teams are still expected to arrive in Dallas on Wednesday.

Statement from AT&T Stadium and the #GoodyearCottonBowl Classic. pic.twitter.com/pvPOSHsQbu

— Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic (@CottonBowlGame) January 8, 2025

“We continue to monitor weather reports, and over the last 24 hours, the forecast for later this week has improved according to the National Weather Service,” the statement read. “We have been meeting routinely with city officials, the Director of Transportation for North Texas and the College Football Playoff.

“Should the forecast shift, we are prepared for all contingencies. North Texas highways are already being brined and plans are in place to assure a safe environment for everyone in and around AT&T Stadium on game day. The teams arrive tomorrow, as planned, and the 2025 CFP Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic will kick off on Friday evening as scheduled.”

Friday’s forecast calls for a high temperature of 38 degrees in Arlington, according to Accuweather. Slippery road conditions are also expected amid the predicted 3-6 inches of snow.

“Some snow in the morning,” the forecast reads. “Low clouds and very cold, turning breezy in the afternoon; storm total 3-6″; expect slippery travel early, then some improvement.”

Yahoo! Sports’ Ross Dellenger also reported there has been “little to no serious discussion” about moving the game from its Friday kickoff time. Fan events and those related to College GameDay are also still on, as scheduled, as of Tuesday night.

Texas and Ohio State are gearing up to square off after winning their respective College Football Playoff quarterfinal games. The Longhorns headed to two overtimes in the Peach Bowl against Arizona State before eventually coming away with the 39-31 victory while the Buckeyes put on a clinic against Oregon in the Rose Bowl en route to the 41-21 win.