The Case for Ohio State

Ohio State, led by head coach Ryan Day, has established itself as one of the most dominant programs in college football over the past decade. The Buckeyes have consistently recruited at an elite level, boasting top-tier talent across all positions. For the 2025 season, Ohio State’s roster is stacked with NFL-caliber talent, especially on the offensive side of the ball. With a potent offense and a defense that has steadily improved, the Buckeyes are built to make a run at the national championship.

Offense: The Power of Ryan Day’s Scheme

Ohio State’s offense has been known for its explosive plays, high tempo, and balance between the run and pass game. Ryan Day, one of the brightest offensive minds in college football, has developed a system that maximizes the talents of his players. The Buckeyes typically feature a dynamic quarterback, a deep group of skill position players, and an offensive line that can overpower defenders.

In 2025, the Buckeyes will likely have a quarterback with a year or two of starting experience, which will be crucial in a high-stakes championship game. Whether it’s a returning starter or a highly touted freshman, Ohio State’s quarterback will have a supporting cast of talented receivers and running backs to rely on. The wide receiver room, which has been among the best in the nation for years, will again feature future NFL stars capable of stretching the field and making big plays. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s running back depth will allow them to control the tempo and attack defenses in a variety of ways.

Defense: Speed and Aggression

Ohio State’s defense, while not as renowned as its offense in recent seasons, has taken significant steps forward under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. In 2025, the Buckeyes will likely feature a more aggressive and disruptive defense, with a focus on creating turnovers, getting after the quarterback, and shutting down the run game. Ohio State’s defensive line has been a strength for several years, and it will be essential in a championship game to put pressure on Notre Dame’s quarterback and stifle their ground attack.

Linebackers who can cover ground quickly and safeties capable of making key tackles and playing in coverage will be crucial in this game. The Buckeyes have typically been one of the fastest teams on defense, and that speed and aggression will be key against a team like Notre Dame that relies on a balanced offense.

Key Players

Quarterback: Ohio State will need elite quarterback play to win the national championship. Whether it’s a veteran with experience in big games or a young star with exceptional talent, the quarterback will need to stay calm under pressure and make crucial plays in the passing game.
Wide Receivers: Ohio State’s receivers, such as Marvin Harrison Jr. (if he is eligible in 2025), could prove to be game-changers. Their ability to win one-on-one matchups down the field will be critical in stretching the defense and opening up running lanes.
Defensive Line: The defensive line, including standout pass rushers, must pressure the quarterback and disrupt Notre Dame’s offensive flow. Ohio State’s defensive front is typically one of the best in the country at creating havoc in the backfield.

The Case for Notre Dame

Notre Dame, under head coach Marcus Freeman, is a program with a long history of success. While they have not won a national championship since 1988, the Fighting Irish have been a consistent contender and have remained in the hunt for college football’s top honors. By 2025, Freeman’s system and culture should be in full swing, and the Fighting Irish could be poised for a breakout performance.

Offense: A Balanced Attack

Notre Dame’s offense, while not always as explosive as some of the other top programs, has a reputation for being fundamentally sound and balanced. The Irish can run the ball effectively, control the clock, and take advantage of matchups in the passing game. In 2025, Notre Dame will likely have a dual-threat quarterback capable of running the football while also making plays through the air. This dual-threat nature is crucial in a championship game, as it keeps opposing defenses on their toes.

Notre Dame’s offensive line is typically one of the best in the country, known for its ability to open up running lanes and protect the quarterback. The running game will likely be a focal point for the Irish in this game, as they attempt to control the clock and keep Ohio State’s offense off the field.

Defense: Strong Front Seven and Secondary Play

Notre Dame’s defense has often been one of its strengths, and by 2025, the Fighting Irish will likely have a defense that can go toe-to-toe with the top teams in the country. The front seven, including standout linebackers and defensive linemen, will be crucial in stopping Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

One of Notre Dame’s strengths has been its ability to stop the run and limit big plays. The Fighting Irish will need to play disciplined football against Ohio State’s dynamic skill players, making sure they don’t give up easy yards or big chunks of field position.

In the secondary, Notre Dame has been known to produce NFL-caliber talent, and by 2025, their defensive backs will need to step up in coverage, limiting Ohio State’s ability to make deep plays in the passing game.

Key Players

Quarterback: Notre Dame’s quarterback will need to be accurate and efficient, capable of managing the game while taking shots downfield when the opportunity arises. If the Irish’s quarterback can make plays with his legs and arm, it will make Ohio State’s defense work overtime.
Running Back: Notre Dame’s running back room is typically filled with powerful and versatile backs capable of controlling the game on the ground. The ability to establish the run will be essential in keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field.
Defensive Line and Linebackers: The strength of Notre Dame’s defense will likely lie in the front seven. Pressure on Ohio State’s quarterback and stopping the run will be pivotal in limiting the Buckeyes’ offensive output.

Game Prediction: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame (2025 CFP National Championship)

Given both teams’ strengths, this game would likely be a classic battle of offensive firepower versus defensive discipline. Ohio State’s explosive offense will be challenged by Notre Dame’s physical and disciplined defense, while the Irish’s balanced attack will face off against one of the most athletic and aggressive defenses in the country.

First Half: Strategic Chess Match

The first half would likely be a back-and-forth chess match, with both teams trying to establish their identities. Ohio State will look to utilize its speed and deep passing game to stretch Notre Dame’s defense, while the Fighting Irish will aim to control the clock with a strong running game and methodical offensive drives.

Ohio State’s offensive line will have its hands full with Notre Dame’s defensive front, and the Buckeyes’ ability to establish the run will be crucial in keeping the defense honest and opening up the passing lanes for their quarterback. Meanwhile, Notre Dame will try to control the tempo of the game, running the football and giving their quarterback manageable third downs.

In the second quarter, expect a few big plays, whether it’s a deep pass from Ohio State or a long run by Notre Dame’s backfield. However, both teams are likely to head into the locker room with a close score, with either side having the ability to seize momentum in the second half.

Second Half: Defensive Adjustments and Big Plays

In the second half, the coaching staffs will make adjustments to counteract the other side’s strengths. Ohio State’s defense will likely ramp up the pressure, trying to create turnovers or force Notre Dame’s quarterback into mistakes. On the other hand, Notre Dame will look to limit Ohio State’s big-play ability, possibly by playing more conservative coverage and attempting to force the Buckeyes to drive methodically down the field.

Special teams could play a critical role in this game, as field position and the ability to create turnovers or big returns could swing the momentum in either direction.

As the game progresses, Ohio State’s offensive playmakers, like its wide receivers and running backs, might make enough big plays to create a two-possession lead. However, Notre Dame will continue to fight back, using its physicality and execution to stay within striking distance.

Ultimately, the game will likely come down to which team can make the most impactful plays in the fourth quarter. Ohio State’s offense, with its firepower and depth, may prove to be too much for Notre Dame’s defense to handle, but the Fighting Irish’s ability to control the clock and make key plays will keep them in the game until the very end.

Prediction: Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 27

In a thrilling, hard-fought national championship game, Ohio State’s explosive offense ultimately prevails, but Notre Dame’s defense makes them earn every point. The Buckeyes’ deep passing game and explosive plays prove to be the difference, while Notre Dame’s methodical approach comes up just short as they fall behind late in the fourth quarter. This game will be remembered as one of the most exciting national championship matchups in recent memory, showcasing the best of both teams’ styles and talents.