AUSTIN (KXAN) - In an unprecedented achievement, the Texas Longhorns have clinched a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history. With a No. 3 ranking, the Longhorns are set to face off against No. 2 Washington in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2024, at 7:45 p.m. CT.

Expressing his confidence, Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian stated, "I've always said if we get in, we can play with anybody in the country. Our versatility stacks up against just about anybody." Sarkisian's optimism highlights the team's belief in their ability to compete at the highest level.

The College Football Playoff National Championship game, slated for January 8, 2024, at NRG Stadium in Houston, will feature the winners of the Sugar Bowl and the Rose Bowl. No. 1 Michigan is set to face No. 4 Alabama in the Rose Bowl at 4 p.m. CT on January 1, 2024.

Notably, Florida State, despite being the first undefeated champion from a Power 5 Conference, did not secure a spot in the playoff. The committee ranked the Seminoles No. 5, with the Georgia Bulldogs following at No. 6. While Florida State won the ACC championship and finished the season with an impressive 13-0 record, the committee decided that the season-ending injury to starting quarterback Jordan Travis affected their overall strength. Seminoles' victory over Lousiville, with third-string quarterback Brock Glenn leading the charge, showcased their formidable defense.

Speaking on the committee's decision, CFP committee chairman Boo Corrigan acknowledged the impact of Travis's absence, stating, "Not having Travis changes their offense entirely and was a big deal with the committee." The committee ultimately chose Alabama over Florida State for the fourth spot.

In their journey to secure a playoff spot, the Texas Longhorns dominated the Big 12 Conference by defeating Oklahoma State 49-21 in the conference title game. Over their last two games, the Longhorns showcased their prowess with a combined score of 106-28. Their impending move to the Southeastern Conference next year adds further significance to their successful season.

Reflecting on their accomplishment, Sarkisian stated, "Our guys have earned this, and we're playing our best football right now. What a great moment for our players and Longhorn Nation. This is the cherry on top, we get to go compete for a national championship."

The Longhorns' upcoming matchup against the Washington Huskies in the Sugar Bowl holds particular significance. Last year, the Huskies emerged victorious with a 27-20 win over Texas in the Alamo Bowl. The absence of running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson, who opted out of the game to prepare for the NFL Draft, adds an additional layer of challenge for the Longhorns.

Acknowledging the tough task ahead, Sarkisian emphasized, "We've got our work cut out for us. Washington is a very good team, and it's going to be a heck of a challenge."

The Longhorns have notched their place in history, and the stage is set for an exhilarating College Football Playoff showdown. Texas fans eagerly anticipate witnessing their team's pursuit of a national championship, adding to the legacy of the storied football program.

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