Ohio State Opens as a Double-Digit Favorite Over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated matchups in college football history. Ohio State, the perennial powerhouse from the Big Ten Conference, has opened as a double-digit favorite against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. This clash between two historic programs promises to deliver high drama and intense competition, as the Buckeyes look to cement their legacy as one of the best teams of the modern era, while the Fighting Irish hope to return to glory with their first national title in over three decades.

Ohio State’s Journey to the National Championship Game

Ohio State enters the National Championship Game with an impressive 13-1 record, having steamrolled through the Big Ten with a potent offense and a stout defense. Head coach Ryan Day has continued the legacy of success built by Urban Meyer, guiding the Buckeyes through an incredibly tough schedule. Ohio State’s lone loss came to Michigan in a thrilling game that kept the rivalry alive and gave the Wolverines their first Big Ten Championship since 2004. However, Ohio State rebounded from that defeat with a dominant performance in the College Football Playoff semifinal, where they obliterated an overmatched team in their path to the national championship.

At the heart of Ohio State’s success has been the explosive play of quarterback C.J. Stroud. The junior signal-caller has been sensational throughout the season, delivering pinpoint passes and leading the offense with poise and confidence. Stroud has made a compelling case for himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 40 touchdowns, with only a handful of interceptions. His ability to stretch the field and make plays under pressure has elevated the Buckeyes’ offense to another level.

Stroud’s weapon of choice has often been wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who has emerged as one of the best players in college football. Harrison’s combination of size, speed, and route-running precision has made him a nightmare for opposing secondaries. The Ohio State offense is not limited to just its aerial attack, though. Running back TreVeyon Henderson provides a potent ground game that balances the offense and keeps opposing defenses guessing.

On the defensive side of the ball, Ohio State has been formidable, led by defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau. The Buckeyes’ defense is fast, aggressive, and disruptive, which has allowed them to stifle some of the best offenses in the nation. With elite pass rushers, lockdown cornerbacks, and a linebacker corps that flies to the ball, Ohio State’s defense will be a critical factor in the game against Notre Dame.

Notre Dame’s Road to the Playoff

Notre Dame, on the other hand, enters the College Football Playoff National Championship Game with a 12-2 record, having navigated a tough schedule that included matchups with powerhouses such as Clemson, USC, and Stanford. The Fighting Irish have proven that they can compete at the highest level under head coach Marcus Freeman, who has brought a new energy to the program after taking over for Brian Kelly in 2022.

While Notre Dame’s offense has been effective, it has not always been as high-octane as Ohio State’s. The Fighting Irish have relied heavily on their defense, which has been among the best in the nation this season. Notre Dame’s ability to slow down opposing offenses has been the hallmark of their success. With a defensive front that can pressure quarterbacks and a secondary that can lock down receivers, Notre Dame’s defense will play a pivotal role in keeping them in the game against the high-powered Buckeyes offense.

At quarterback, Notre Dame has relied on sophomore Tyler Buchner, who has taken major strides throughout the season. Buchner has had his ups and downs but has shown resilience in big moments. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs gives the Fighting Irish an element of unpredictability. Buchner’s development will be key in the national championship game, as he will need to manage the game and make crucial throws in pressure situations.

Notre Dame also boasts a strong running game, led by senior back Audric Estime, who has been a workhorse for the Fighting Irish. Estime’s power and vision allow him to grind out tough yards, which could be crucial in keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field. For Notre Dame to compete in this matchup, they will need to establish the run and control the clock, limiting Ohio State’s explosive plays.

Key Matchup: Ohio State Offense vs. Notre Dame Defense

The most intriguing aspect of this game is the battle between Ohio State’s explosive offense and Notre Dame’s stout defense. Ohio State’s offense, with its wealth of talent at quarterback, receiver, and running back, is capable of scoring at will. The Buckeyes’ offensive line has done an excellent job of protecting C.J. Stroud and creating running lanes for Henderson, which has been a key factor in their success.

However, Notre Dame’s defense presents a significant challenge. The Fighting Irish have one of the best pass rushes in the nation, led by standout defensive ends like Isaiah Foskey. Foskey, who has been a terror all season, will need to disrupt Stroud’s rhythm and put pressure on him to force mistakes. Additionally, Notre Dame’s linebackers, including senior star JD Bertrand, will need to be disciplined in coverage and tackle in space, especially when covering the dynamic playmakers in Ohio State’s receiving corps.

Notre Dame’s secondary, featuring standout cornerbacks like Cam Hart, will also have to find a way to contain Marvin Harrison Jr. and the rest of Ohio State’s receivers. If Stroud has time to throw, he will likely pick apart the secondary with precision passes to his wideouts, making it imperative for the Fighting Irish to get pressure on the quarterback.

Key Matchup: Notre Dame Offense vs. Ohio State Defense

On the other side of the ball, Notre Dame’s offense will face a tough challenge in Ohio State’s defense. The Buckeyes are known for their ability to get after the quarterback, and J.T. Tuimoloau will be a major factor in this game. If Tuimoloau can generate pressure on Tyler Buchner and force him into uncomfortable situations, Notre Dame’s offense could struggle to find a rhythm.

Notre Dame will need to establish the run with Audric Estime to take the pressure off Buchner. If Estime can break off some big runs early, it will force Ohio State to respect the run game and potentially open up play-action opportunities for Buchner. However, Ohio State’s defensive line is one of the best in the nation, and stopping Estime at the line of scrimmage could stifle Notre Dame’s offense and make it difficult for them to sustain drives.

While Notre Dame’s passing game may not be as dynamic as Ohio State’s, Tyler Buchner has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. If he can make timely throws and keep Ohio State’s defense honest, it will open up the offense. Buchner will also need to make plays with his legs, as scrambling for first downs and extending plays will be critical in keeping the chains moving.

Intangibles: Coaching and Experience

Both Ohio State and Notre Dame bring championship-caliber coaching staffs to the table. Ryan Day, who has led Ohio State to multiple College Football Playoff appearances, is a seasoned leader who has been in the biggest games before. His ability to adapt on the fly and make in-game adjustments will be crucial for the Buckeyes.

On the other side, Marcus Freeman has breathed new life into Notre Dame since taking over the head coaching position. Freeman’s defensive background makes him particularly adept at preparing his team for high-stakes matchups like this one. Though he may not have as much experience coaching in national championship games, Freeman’s energy and leadership have already proven to be a difference-maker for Notre Dame.

Another factor to consider is the experience of Ohio State’s roster. The Buckeyes are full of players who have been in high-pressure situations, including players who have appeared in College Football Playoff games in the past. That experience could give Ohio State an edge, especially in the later stages of the game when composure becomes critical.