Who is Calling the National Championship Game? All About the Ohio State-Notre Dame’s Thrilling Matchup
The anticipation for the College Football Playoff National Championship has been building for months. As fans eagerly prepare to watch Ohio State take on Notre Dame in a battle for college football supremacy, another question looms large: Who will be calling the action? The voices that narrate the excitement, the tension, and the drama of these monumental games play a huge role in the experience of the fans at home. As the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare for one of the most thrilling and highly anticipated matchups in recent memory, the announcement of the broadcast crew becomes just as important as the teams themselves.
In this article, we dive into the broadcast teams calling the game, discuss their backgrounds and expertise, and look into the significance of the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame National Championship matchup. With both teams bringing rich traditions, talented players, and passionate fanbases to the field, the broadcast crew will have a significant role in capturing the energy and excitement of this championship clash.
Ohio State vs. Notre Dame: A Thrilling National Championship Showdown
Before we discuss who will be calling the game, let’s first take a moment to examine what makes this matchup so special. The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship features two of college football’s most storied programs: Ohio State and Notre Dame. Both teams have rich histories, passionate fanbases, and a legacy of success that stretches across decades.
Ohio State: A Program Built on Tradition and Excellence
Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in college football. With eight national championships, 38 Big Ten titles, and a roster of legendary players like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, and Troy Smith, the Buckeyes have consistently been one of the top programs in the country. Under the leadership of Ryan Day, Ohio State has maintained its place among the elite programs, with a dynamic offense and a defense that has developed into a force to be reckoned with.
The 2025 Ohio State team has shown resilience, skill, and star power all season long, led by a talented roster featuring standout players like quarterback Kyle McCord, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and an aggressive defense anchored by a relentless pass rush. Ohio State has built a reputation as a well-rounded team with the ability to dominate on both sides of the ball, and this matchup against Notre Dame promises to be an exciting showcase of their talents.
Notre Dame: A Legacy of Fighting Spirit and Elite Play
On the other side of the field, Notre Dame brings its own history of success. With 11 national championships and a long tradition of producing elite talent, the Fighting Irish are a name synonymous with college football greatness. Notre Dame is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, storied tradition, and the passionate support of its fans. The program’s rich legacy includes standout players such as Joe Montana, Tim Brown, and Jerome Bettis, who have become household names in the sport.
In 2025, head coach Marcus Freeman has led Notre Dame to the pinnacle of college football. Freeman has been able to bring a balanced attack to the team, mixing strong defensive play with a potent offensive game plan. Players like quarterback Sam Hartman, running back Audric Estime, and defensive star JD Bertrand have helped elevate Notre Dame back into national championship contention. With a powerful offense and a defense that has been tough against some of the best teams in the country, Notre Dame is looking to add another title to its storied history.
The Broadcast Team: Who Will Be Calling the Game?
Now, with the stage set for what promises to be an unforgettable National Championship, fans are eager to know who will be providing the play-by-play and analysis for this high-stakes game. Let’s dive into the broadcast team that will bring the excitement of Ohio State vs. Notre Dame directly to your living room.
Play-by-Play: Chris Fowler
At the helm of the broadcast is Chris Fowler, one of the most respected and well-known voices in college football. Fowler has been the voice of college football for decades and is recognized for his ability to capture the drama and intensity of big-time games. He has called numerous National Championship games and playoff matchups throughout his career, and his experience and professionalism make him a perfect fit for such a high-profile event.
Fowler is known for his calm and steady delivery, which helps to balance the intensity of the game with the excitement of the moment. His vast knowledge of the sport allows him to provide insightful commentary while keeping the action moving. Whether it’s the pulse-pounding moments of the fourth quarter or the strategic decisions made in the first half, Fowler’s voice has become synonymous with some of college football’s most memorable moments.
Analyst: Kirk Herbstreit
Alongside Chris Fowler will be Kirk Herbstreit, one of the most recognizable names in college football analysis. Herbstreit’s deep understanding of the game and his ability to break down complex plays in a way that is accessible to fans make him an invaluable asset to the broadcast team. A former college football player himself, Herbstreit has a unique perspective that resonates with viewers, and his insights into Ohio State and Notre Dame’s strategies will add depth to the broadcast.
Herbstreit’s chemistry with Fowler is legendary, and their partnership has become a hallmark of ESPN’s college football coverage. The duo has called countless big games together, and their rapport ensures that fans are not only informed but entertained throughout the broadcast. With his keen eye for detail, Herbstreit will provide fans with a comprehensive breakdown of key moments in the game, helping them understand the strategies behind the plays.
Sideline Reporter: Holly Rowe
Providing updates from the field will be Holly Rowe, one of the top sideline reporters in the industry. Rowe’s ability to connect with players, coaches, and fans in a way that brings an added layer of excitement and information to the broadcast makes her an integral part of the team. Her on-the-ground reporting provides fans with insights into the players’ emotions, the energy on the sidelines, and any injuries or key developments that arise during the game.
Rowe’s presence adds a dynamic element to the broadcast, and her ability to tell stories and capture the human side of the game ensures that viewers are connected to the action in a way that goes beyond the X’s and O’s. Whether it’s interviewing coaches during halftime or providing updates on player conditions, Rowe is adept at delivering crucial information in a way that enhances the viewing experience.
Additional Commentary: Rece Davis and Desmond Howard
In addition to the main broadcast team, Rece Davis and Desmond Howard will also provide additional commentary and analysis before, during, and after the game. Davis, who has been a staple in ESPN’s college football coverage for years, is known for his engaging hosting style and in-depth analysis. He will be providing updates and setting the stage for the game’s biggest moments, giving fans insight into the stakes of the matchup and the storylines surrounding each team.
Desmond Howard, a Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL star, will bring his unique perspective as a former player to the analysis. Howard is known for his candid opinions and bold takes, and his insights into the strategies that both Ohio State and Notre Dame employ will be invaluable for fans looking to gain a deeper understanding of the game. Howard’s passion for college football is evident, and his presence will certainly add excitement to the coverage.
Why This Broadcast Team Matters
The Ohio State vs. Notre Dame National Championship game is a monumental event in the world of college football, and the broadcast team will play an essential role in capturing the excitement and drama of the game. The team calling the game is tasked with delivering a broadcast that brings the high stakes of the matchup to life while also providing fans with in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes coverage, and timely updates.
For Ohio State and Notre Dame fans, this broadcast will not only be an opportunity to watch their teams battle for a national title but also to hear the voices that have become synonymous with college football excellence. Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Holly Rowe, Rece Davis, and Desmond Howard represent the gold standard in college football broadcasting, and their combined expertise will ensure that fans are not just watching a game but experiencing it in real-time, with all the passion and intensity that college football has to offer.
Conclusion
As Ohio State and Notre Dame prepare to clash in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, fans can look forward to a thrilling broadcast experience. With an all-star team of announcers calling the action — Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Holly Rowe, Rece Davis, and Desmond Howard — viewers can expect an immersive, high-energy experience that brings them closer to the heart of the action.
From the play-by-play narration to the expert analysis and sideline reporting, this broadcast will help capture the tension, drama, and intensity of a National Championship game between two of the sport’s most storied programs. For fans of both Ohio State and Notre Dame, this is more than just a game — it’s a celebration of college football, and the voices calling it will help make it an unforgettable experience.
