12 vs 28 
Ohio StateRecap
DALLAS, Tex. — Chalk up one for the defense as Ohio State made its first ever appearance in the Cotton Bowl with a 28-12 win over powerful Texas A&M. The Buckeyes surprised the Aggies with several defenses they had not used in 1986. As a result, Ohio State intercepted five A&M passes and kept the explosive Aggie offense under control.
All-American Chris Spielman was chosen the “Top Defensive Player,” as he made 11 tackles and picked off two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown at a point in the game when the Buckeyes led by a scant 7-6 margin. Michael Kee, with 12 tackles, intercepted an Aggie pass and returned it 49 yards for another Ohio State score that put the game out of reach.
All-American Cris Carter caught four passes, including several spectacular leaping receptions. Teammate Nate Harris enjoyed one of his best days with six catches for 105 yards.
The five Ohio State interceptions set a Cotton Bowl record.
Video
Details
| Date | League | Season | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1, 1987 | Ohio State | 1986 | 74,188 |
Results
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TD | T | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M | 3 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 1 | 12 | Loss |
| Ohio State | 0 | 7 | 14 | 7 | 4 | 28 | Win |
Stadium
| Cotton Bowl |
|---|