The University of Texas Longhorns face the Ohio State Buckeyes in the College Football Playoff semifinals in Arlington — the backdrop of which is a cold snap that brought snow, sleet and freezing temperatures to North Texas in recent days.

Unlike last night’s College Football Playoff matchup, both programs participating in Friday's second semifinal can at least claim national championships in the 21st century. But they, too, have legions of devoted followers who are not exactly known for their patience when it comes to title aspirations.

We've already had one College Football Playoff game go to overtime this year. We appear to have another one coming. Notre Dame and Penn State are tied, 24-24, with less than a minute to play on Thursday evening.