College Football Playoff 2024-25: Championship Showdown Between Notre Dame and Ohio State
As the dust settles on the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff, we find ourselves with a thrilling finale on the horizon. The stage is set for a classic showdown between two storied programs: the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Ohio State Buckeyes. These two teams, seeded seventh and eighth respectively, have battled their way through a grueling playoff to earn their spot in the championship game. On January 20, at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, they will clash for the ultimate prize in college football: the CFP National Championship Presented by AT&T.
For Notre Dame, this is a chance to end a championship drought that has lasted since 1988. The Fighting Irish have been on the cusp of greatness for years, and now, under the leadership of head coach Marcus Freeman, they have the opportunity to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of college football. On the other side, Ohio State is no stranger to success, having won the first CFP championship a decade ago. However, for a program that is consistently among the elite, a decade feels like an eternity. Head coach Ryan Day is determined to bring another title back to Columbus.
Both Freeman and Day are seeking their first championships as head coaches, adding another layer of intrigue to this matchup. Freeman, a former All-Big Ten linebacker for Ohio State, will face his alma mater with everything on the line. It’s a storyline that writes itself, as Freeman looks to overcome the team that has bested him in each of the past two seasons. Meanwhile, Day is focused on achieving 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. The Irish have shown an incredible ability to overcome adversity, as evidenced by their performance against Penn State. Despite facing injuries and deficits, they have consistently excelled in the “middle eight” and dominated third down on both sides of the ball. Key players like quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jeremiyah Love, and linebacker Jack Kiser have been instrumental, but the depth of the team is also noteworthy, with contributions from backup QB Steve Angeli, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, and kicker Mitch Jeter.
X factor: Jaden Greathouse has emerged as a potential game-changer for Notre Dame. Entering the semifinal with modest stats, he delivered a standout performance with career highs in receptions and receiving yards, including a crucial 54-yard touchdown. As the Irish look to bolster their downfield passing game, Greathouse’s emergence could be pivotal.
How Notre Dame wins: While Notre Dame may not have the talent edge, their grit and determination make them formidable opponents. To win, they need contributions across all phases and must continue to incorporate downfield passes. Maintaining their third-down efficiency and avoiding turnovers will be crucial against a strong Ohio State team.
Ohio State Buckeyes (13-2)
What we learned in the semifinal: Ohio State’s defense has proven to be championship-caliber, led by standout senior defensive end Jack Sawyer. His game-clinching play against Texas, a sack and fumble recovery for a touchdown, highlighted the Buckeyes’ defensive prowess. Despite offensive struggles, Ohio State’s defense has been a force to be reckoned with.
X factor: Lathan Ransom’s critical play on second-and-goal set the stage for Sawyer’s heroics. Ransom’s ability to disrupt plays and make key stops showcases the depth and talent of Ohio State’s defense, which includes All-American safety Caleb Downs.
How Ohio State wins: Ohio State’s offense thrives when Jeremiah Smith is involved, but Texas managed to neutralize him. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly must devise a strategy to get Smith more involved, as Notre Dame will likely attempt a similar defensive approach. Finding ways to exploit the Irish defense will be key to Ohio State’s success.
- Notre Dame seeks first title since 1988.
- Ohio State aims for second CFP championship.
- Coaches Freeman and Day pursue first titles.
Originally Written by: ESPN
