The College Football Playoff National Championship is set, and the stage couldn’t be bigger. On Monday, January 20, 2025, No. 7 Notre Dame will take on No. 8 Ohio State at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Both teams have defied the odds to reach this point and now stand just one win away from college football glory.
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Notre Dame Fighting Irish Back in the Spotlight
Notre Dame has been one of the most resilient teams in college football this season. After losing to Northern Illinois in Week 2, many counted the Fighting Irish out. But under head coach Marcus Freeman, the team rallied to win 13 straight games, including a dramatic playoff push that secured their first national championship appearance since 2012.
Offensively, quarterback Riley Leonard has been critical to Notre Dame’s success. Leonard excels when kept clean in the pocket, but he struggles under pressure. The offensive line has done a great job in run blocking, ranking 17th nationally, but pass protection has been a concern, ranking just 82nd. Wide receiver Jaden Greathouse has emerged as a key target, especially in attacking defenses outside the numbers.
The Irish ground game is their offensive cornerstone, led by Jeremiyah Love and a strong offensive line. However, they’ve struggled to generate explosive runs during the playoffs, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry outside of one long touchdown. With injuries on the line, Notre Dame’s ability to establish the run against Ohio State’s top-ranked run defense will be a deciding factor.
Defensively, Notre Dame thrives on its aggressive man coverage scheme, leading the nation in interceptions and forced incompletions. Freshman standout Leonard Moore and veteran safety Xavier Watts anchor a unit that can force turnovers. However, the Irish face a monumental challenge in containing Ohio State’s deep and talented receiving corps. Success here could be the key to their title hopes.
Ohio State Buckeyes Peaking at the Right Time
Ohio State came into the season with championship expectations, but losses to Oregon and Michigan had fans questioning their path. Head coach Ryan Day rallied the team, and the Buckeyes have since dominated their playoff opponents, winning by an average margin of 20 points. Now, they are back in the national championship game for the first time since 2020, looking to claim their first title in a decade.
The Buckeyes’ offense is loaded with talent. Quarterback Will Howard has been exceptional, especially against man coverage, where he ranks among the best in the nation. His top target, Jeremiah Smith, is a nightmare for opposing secondaries, while Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate provide depth and versatility. The running game, led by TreVeyon Henderson, has shifted to a gap-heavy approach during the playoffs, simplifying blocking schemes for a makeshift offensive line.
Defensively, Ohio State is as dominant as it gets. The Buckeyes lead the nation in run-defense grade, allowing just 3.9 yards per carry. Edge rushers Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau anchor a front seven that disrupts opposing offenses, while the secondary is strong in limiting plays inside the numbers. If Ohio State’s defense can contain Notre Dame’s rushing attack and force Leonard into difficult passing situations, it could be a long night for the Fighting Irish.
The Buckeyes are also disciplined and balanced, ranking in the top 10 nationally in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Their ability to control the game on both sides of the ball makes them a formidable opponent.
Prediction
Both teams have shown tremendous heart and resilience to reach this point, but Ohio State’s overall depth and balance give them the edge. The Buckeyes’ defense is built to neutralize Notre Dame’s rushing attack, while their offense has too many weapons for the Irish to handle. Unless Notre Dame can create turnovers and control the clock, this game could swing in Ohio State’s favor.
Final Score Prediction: Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 17
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