College Football Playoff 2024-25: Championship Showdown Between Notre Dame and Ohio State
As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated College Football Playoff National Championship, the excitement is palpable. The first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff has whittled down to two formidable contenders: Notre Dame and Ohio State. This thrilling matchup is set to take place on January 20 at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and fans are eagerly awaiting the showdown.
Both teams have a lot riding on this game. The seventh-seeded Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the eighth-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes are not just playing for the title; they are playing to end significant championship droughts. For Notre Dame, a victory would mark their first national championship since 1988. Ohio State, on the other hand, is looking to add another title to their collection, having last won the CFP championship a decade ago. Despite their consistent elite performance, it feels like a long wait for the Buckeyes.
Coaches Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame and Ryan Day of Ohio State are both in pursuit of their first championships as head coaches. Freeman’s journey is particularly intriguing, as he faces his alma mater, Ohio State, where he was an All-Big Ten linebacker under coach Jim Tressel. The stakes are high, and the narrative is rich with history and potential redemption.
Let’s dive into what we can expect from this championship clash in Atlanta. — Adam Rittenberg
CFP National Championship Presented by AT&T:
No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 8 Ohio State
When: January 20 at 7:30 p.m. ET. TV: ESPN
Notre Dame Fighting Irish (14-1)
What we learned in the semifinal: Notre Dame’s resilience and situational awareness have been their hallmark traits this season, and these could be the keys to their success in the championship game. The Irish have shown remarkable tenacity, overcoming injuries and erasing deficits, as they did against Penn State. Their dominance in the “middle eight” — the final four minutes of the first half and the first four minutes of the second half — and their third-down efficiency have been crucial. Key players like quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jeremiyah Love, and linebacker Jack Kiser have been instrumental, but the team also relies on backup QB Steve Angeli, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, and kicker Mitch Jeter. This team is tough to beat.
X factor: Jaden Greathouse has emerged as a potential game-changer. Entering the semifinal with modest stats, he exploded with career highs in receptions and receiving yards, including a crucial 54-yard touchdown. His performance in the second half was pivotal, and if he continues this form, he could be a significant asset for Notre Dame’s offense.
How Notre Dame wins: While Notre Dame may not have the talent edge due to injuries, their grit and determination make them formidable opponents. They need contributions across all phases and must continue to incorporate downfield passes, a strategy that paid off against Penn State. Maintaining their third-down efficiency and avoiding turnovers will be crucial to their success.
Ohio State Buckeyes (13-2)
What we learned in the semifinal: Ohio State’s defense has proven its championship caliber, led by senior defensive end Jack Sawyer. His game-clinching play against Texas, a sack and fumble recovery for a touchdown, was a defining moment. Despite offensive struggles, the Buckeyes’ defense showcased why it’s considered one of the best in college football.
X factor: Lathan Ransom’s critical play on second-and-goal set the stage for Sawyer’s heroics. His ability to disrupt Texas’ offense was crucial, and his presence, along with other veteran defenders, adds depth to Ohio State’s formidable defense.
How Ohio State wins: Ohio State’s offense needs to find ways to involve their top playmaker, Jeremiah Smith, who was effectively neutralized by Texas. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly must devise a strategy to get Smith more involved, as his contributions are vital to the Buckeyes’ success. Adapting to Notre Dame’s defensive strategies will be key.
- Notre Dame’s resilience and situational awareness are key strengths.
- Ohio State’s defense, led by Jack Sawyer, is championship-ready.
- Jaden Greathouse and Jeremiah Smith are potential game-changers.
Originally Written by: ESPN
