College Football Playoff 2024-25: Championship First Look
As the dust settles on the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff, we find ourselves with two storied programs ready to clash for the ultimate prize. Notre Dame and Ohio State, both with rich histories and passionate fan bases, are set to meet on January 20 at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This showdown promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a groundbreaking season.
For Notre Dame, this is a chance to end a championship drought that has lasted since 1988. The Fighting Irish, seeded seventh, have shown remarkable resilience throughout the season, overcoming injuries and tough opponents to reach this point. On the other side, the eighth-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes are no strangers to the big stage, having won the first College Football Playoff championship a decade ago. However, for a program that consistently ranks among the elite, even a decade feels like a long wait for another title.
Both head coaches, Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame and Ryan Day of Ohio State, are seeking their first championships. Freeman, in particular, has an intriguing storyline as he faces his alma mater, where he was an All-Big Ten linebacker under coach Jim Tressel. After losing to Ohio State in each of the past two seasons, Freeman has orchestrated a masterful campaign to bring his team to the brink of glory. Meanwhile, Day is looking to achieve the ultimate goal for a team that has faced its share of challenges but never stopped fighting.
CFP National Championship Presented by AT&T:
No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 8 Ohio State
When: Jan. 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 calling cards this season. Against Penn State, they overcame injuries and deficits, showcasing their ability to dominate the “middle eight” and excel on third downs. Key players like quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jeremiyah Love, and linebacker Jack Kiser have been instrumental, but the depth of the team has been equally important. Backup QB Steve Angeli, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, and kicker Mitch Jeter have all stepped up when needed.
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 yards, including a crucial 54-yard touchdown. His ability to perform in clutch moments could be pivotal for Notre Dame’s offense, which is looking for more downfield production.
How Notre Dame wins: While they may not have the talent edge, Notre Dame’s grit and determination make them formidable. They need contributions across all phases and must continue to incorporate downfield passes, as seen against Penn State. Winning the turnover battle and maintaining their third-down efficiency will be crucial.
Ohio State Buckeyes (13-2)
What we learned in the semifinal: Ohio State’s defense is championship-caliber, led by senior defensive end Jack Sawyer. His game-clinching scoop-and-score against Texas highlighted the Buckeyes’ defensive prowess. Despite offensive struggles, their defense proved why it’s one of the best in college football.
X factor: Senior safety Lathan Ransom made a critical play that set up Sawyer’s heroics. His ability to disrupt plays and make key stops adds depth to a defense already featuring All-American safety Caleb Downs.
How Ohio State wins: The Buckeyes need to find ways to involve their top playmaker, true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who was limited by Texas. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly must devise a strategy to get Smith the ball, countering Notre Dame’s defensive schemes.
- Notre Dame’s resilience and execution are key.
- Ohio State’s defense is a formidable force.
- Key players and X factors could decide the outcome.
As we look forward to this epic clash, both teams have shown they have what it takes to be champions. The stage is set for a memorable battle in Atlanta, where history will be made, and a new champion will be crowned.
Originally Written by: ESPN
