Notre Dame vs. Ohio State: How to Watch, Picks, Odds for College Football Playoff National Championship Game
The College Football Playoff National Championship Game is one of the biggest and most highly anticipated events in American sports, and this year’s matchup is no exception. With the Notre Dame Fighting Irish set to face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes, college football fans are in for a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s most storied programs. This game will not only crown the national champion but also serve as a testament to the skill, perseverance, and talent that both teams have showcased throughout their remarkable seasons.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the Notre Dame vs. Ohio State National Championship Game, including how to watch, expert picks, the latest odds, and a breakdown of the teams’ strengths and key players. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of either school or a casual observer of the College Football Playoff (CFP), this article will prepare you for the excitement and drama of what promises to be an unforgettable championship clash.
How to Watch Notre Dame vs. Ohio State: Game Details
Before diving into predictions and analysis, let’s first cover the essential details for watching the game.
- Date: Monday, January 13, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM EST
- Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California (home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers)
- Broadcasting: ESPN (televised nationwide)
- Streaming: ESPN+, the ESPN app, and through cable providers offering ESPN channels.
Whether you’re attending the game in person at SoFi Stadium, watching from the comfort of your home, or following the action online, there are plenty of ways to catch the game. The event will be aired live across the country, ensuring that fans from both Notre Dame and Ohio State, as well as college football enthusiasts everywhere, have access to this historic matchup.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Road to the Championship
The Ohio State Buckeyes are no strangers to the College Football Playoff, and their road to the 2025 National Championship has been a thrilling one. As a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference, Ohio State entered the season with high expectations. The Buckeyes quickly lived up to the hype, finishing the regular season with a perfect 12-0 record and winning the Big Ten Championship. With a dynamic offense, a stout defense, and a deep roster of talent, Ohio State seemed to have all the tools to make a run for the national title.
Led by head coach Ryan Day, who has established himself as one of the top coaches in college football, the Buckeyes have been formidable all season. Day’s offensive genius has allowed quarterback Kyle McCord, a sophomore who emerged as the starter, to flourish in a system that emphasizes explosive passing plays and a balanced rushing attack. McCord has been able to rely on talented receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr., who is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the country and a potential first-round pick in the NFL Draft.
While the offense has garnered much of the attention, the Buckeyes’ defense, under coordinator Jim Knowles, has been equally impressive. Ohio State’s defense ranks among the top in the nation in multiple categories, including total defense, passing defense, and sacks. Anchored by standout players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Tommy Eichenberg, the Buckeyes’ defense has the ability to shut down even the most high-powered offenses, making them a tough matchup for any team.
Ohio State’s journey to the National Championship Game has not been without challenges, but the Buckeyes have demonstrated resilience and adaptability throughout the season. The team’s high-powered offense and dominant defense make them one of the most complete teams in college football, and they will certainly pose a significant challenge to Notre Dame in the final game of the season.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Road to the Championship
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have always been one of the most respected and storied programs in college football, and they are no strangers to big games. However, after a series of near-misses in recent years, the Irish have managed to finally break through and reach the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Led by head coach Marcus Freeman, who is in his third year at the helm, Notre Dame has demonstrated a blend of offensive efficiency and defensive prowess that has put them on a collision course with Ohio State for the championship.
Notre Dame’s path to the national title has been highlighted by key victories over top-tier opponents, including a dominant win over Clemson and a season-defining victory over USC. The Irish have showcased a well-rounded game plan that relies on a balanced offensive attack led by quarterback Sam Hartman and a tenacious, opportunistic defense.
Hartman, a graduate transfer from Wake Forest, has been everything Notre Dame hoped for when he arrived in South Bend. Known for his poise, leadership, and accuracy, Hartman has proven himself capable of leading Notre Dame’s offense in big moments. He has built chemistry with talented receivers such as Jaden Greathouse and Chris Tyree, who have helped make Notre Dame’s offense more dynamic and difficult to defend.
Defensively, Notre Dame has been just as impressive. With Al Golden coordinating the defense, the Irish have excelled at both stopping the run and limiting big plays. The defense is led by a dominant front seven, including linebackers like JD Bertrand and defensive linemen such as Riley Mills, who can wreak havoc on opposing offenses. The secondary, anchored by safeties Xavier Watts and Benjamin Morrison, is one of the most talented units in the country, and they will need to be at their best against Ohio State’s explosive passing attack.
While Notre Dame may not have the same flashy reputation as some of the other programs in the College Football Playoff, they have proven to be a team capable of competing with the very best. Their well-balanced style of play and ability to win in all phases of the game have earned them a shot at the ultimate prize in college football.
Key Matchup: Ohio State’s Offense vs. Notre Dame’s Defense
One of the most intriguing storylines heading into the National Championship Game is the battle between Ohio State’s high-octane offense and Notre Dame’s stifling defense. Ohio State has been one of the most explosive offenses in college football, with McCord and Harrison Jr. leading the charge. The Buckeyes have the ability to break open a game with quick-strike touchdowns, and their passing attack has been particularly lethal all season.
However, Notre Dame’s defense is built to handle such explosive offenses. The Irish have shown the ability to limit high-powered attacks and force turnovers, and they will need to do both to keep Ohio State’s offense from running wild. If Notre Dame’s defensive line can generate consistent pressure on McCord, it could disrupt the Buckeyes’ timing and prevent them from executing their downfield passing game. Additionally, the Irish secondary must be prepared to contend with Harrison, who is one of the best receivers in college football.
The matchup between Ohio State’s offense and Notre Dame’s defense will likely be the key to determining the outcome of the game. If Ohio State can establish the passing game early, it will be difficult for Notre Dame to keep up. However, if Notre Dame’s defense can stifle Ohio State’s attack and force them to become one-dimensional, it could give the Irish an opportunity to control the tempo of the game.
Key Matchup: Notre Dame’s Offense vs. Ohio State’s Defense
On the flip side, Notre Dame’s offense will need to go toe-to-toe with one of the nation’s top defenses. Ohio State’s defense, led by Knowles, is known for its aggressive playcalling, and they will be looking to stifle Hartman and the Irish offense. The Buckeyes have a formidable front seven that is capable of applying constant pressure on the quarterback, and their secondary is well-equipped to handle Notre Dame’s receiving corps.
Hartman’s ability to stay composed under pressure and make accurate throws will be critical for the Irish. He will need to find success in both the passing and running games to keep Ohio State’s defense guessing. Running back Audric Estime, who has been a key part of Notre Dame’s offense, will need to find success on the ground to take some pressure off Hartman and allow the Irish to establish a balanced offensive attack.
Ultimately, this matchup will come down to Notre Dame’s ability to execute under pressure. If the Irish can sustain drives, protect Hartman, and score points, they will give themselves a fighting chance against one of the most talented teams in the nation.
Picks and Odds
As the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship Game approaches, predictions are swirling. Ohio State enters the game as the slight favorite, with odds that favor their explosive offense and depth of talent across the board. However, Notre Dame’s well-coached, disciplined, and physical approach makes them a formidable opponent.
- Ohio State Buckeyes: -2.5 (Favorite)
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish: +2.5 (Underdog)
- Over/Under: 56.5 points
Picks: While Ohio State may have the edge in terms of talent and offensive explosiveness, Notre Dame’s defense will make this a tight contest. Expect the game to be close, with Ohio State’s offense ultimately being the difference. Buckeyes win by a narrow margin.
Conclusion
The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship Game between Notre Dame and Ohio State promises to be an exciting clash of two powerhouse programs with rich traditions. As both teams prepare for the biggest game of the season, fans can expect a high-level, hard-fought battle in SoFi Stadium. Whether you’re cheering for the Irish or the Buckeyes, this game will undoubtedly be one to remember as college football crowns its national champion.
