The longest College Football Playoff season in history has come down to one final showdown. Notre Dame and Ohio State, two of the most storied programs in college football, will battle for the national championship in Atlanta. Both teams entered the playoffs as underdogs, with Notre Dame as the No. 7 seed and Ohio State as the No. 8 seed. However, after dominant first-round victories and upset wins over top conference champions, they have earned their place in the title game.
This game is set to be a clash of styles, with Ohio State’s high-powered offense facing off against Notre Dame’s elite defense. Both teams have quarterbacks—Will Howard for Ohio State and Riley Leonard for Notre Dame—who are in their first year with their respective programs. Now, they each have the opportunity to cap off their college careers with a championship victory.
Road to the Championship
Notre Dame’s Journey
- Defeated a first-round opponent convincingly at home
- Upset SEC champion Georgia in the Orange Bowl with a late-game victory
- Showcased a dominant defense throughout the playoffs
Ohio State’s Journey
- Won its first-round game with ease
- Took down Big Ten champion Michigan to reach the semifinals
- Beat Texas in the Cotton Bowl in a high-scoring battle
Now, both teams meet in Atlanta to fight for a national title, with each looking to end long championship droughts—Notre Dame’s last title came in 1988, while Ohio State last won in 2014.
Expert Predictions: Who Will Win?
Scooby Axson: Ohio State Wins a Close One
Axson believes that despite struggling to run the ball, Ohio State’s passing attack will expose Notre Dame’s defensive weaknesses. With elite receivers, the Buckeyes will find ways to make enough plays to secure the victory.
Prediction: Ohio State 27, Notre Dame 21
Jordan Mendoza: A Defensive Battle Goes to Ohio State
Mendoza expects a low-scoring game dominated by two strong defenses. However, Ohio State’s ability to break through Notre Dame’s secondary will be the deciding factor.
Prediction: Ohio State 23, Notre Dame 16
Paul Myerberg: Notre Dame’s Defense Prevails
Myerberg sees Notre Dame controlling the tempo, preventing Ohio State from turning the game into a shootout. In a defensive struggle, he believes the Fighting Irish will emerge victorious.
Prediction: Notre Dame 24, Ohio State 20
Erick Smith: Can Notre Dame Keep Up?
Smith argues that Notre Dame’s defense will keep them in the game early, but their offense may not provide enough support. If they can hold on, the game could be close. If not, Ohio State could dominate late.
Prediction: Ohio State 30, Notre Dame 16
Eddie Timanus: Ohio State’s Offensive Depth Makes the Difference
Timanus highlights Ohio State’s offensive weapons, including running backs Treveyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, as well as star receiver Jeremiah Smith. He believes they will eventually break through for a game-changing score.
Prediction: Ohio State 27, Notre Dame 17
Dan Wolken: Buckeyes Pull Away in the Second Half
Wolken predicts that Notre Dame will compete early but will struggle to keep up with Ohio State’s defense and offensive firepower in the second half.
Prediction: Ohio State 33, Notre Dame 10
Key Matchups to Watch
Notre Dame’s Secondary vs. Ohio State’s Receivers
Notre Dame’s defense has been their strength all season, but they face a major challenge against Ohio State’s elite receiving corps, led by freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith. If Notre Dame can limit big plays, they have a chance to keep the game close.
Ohio State’s Offensive Line vs. Notre Dame’s Pass Rush
The Fighting Irish must generate pressure on Ohio State quarterback Will Howard. If they can disrupt Ohio State’s rhythm, they could force key turnovers.
Riley Leonard vs. Ohio State’s Defense
Notre Dame’s quarterback, Riley Leonard, must play efficiently and avoid mistakes against a tough Buckeyes defense. If he can sustain long drives and put points on the board, Notre Dame will have a chance to pull off another upset.
Can Notre Dame’s Defense Stop Ohio State’s Firepower?
While both teams have proven their resilience in the playoffs, the game will ultimately come down to whether Notre Dame’s defense can slow down Ohio State’s dynamic offense. Most experts predict that Ohio State’s talent and depth will give them the edge, but Notre Dame has shown they can rise to the occasion.
If the Fighting Irish control the clock and force Ohio State into a slow, defensive battle, they have a chance to pull off the upset. However, if the Buckeyes’ offense takes over, it could be a long night for Notre Dame.
No matter the outcome, this unexpected championship matchup promises to be an exciting battle between two historic programs.
