‘Legends Forever’: Sports World Reacts to Ohio State Winning Its 9th National Title
In a season filled with drama, heart, and unforgettable moments, the Ohio State Buckeyes have claimed their 9th national championship in college football. The Buckeyes triumphed over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, clinching a hard-fought 34-23 victory that sent shockwaves through the college football world. As the confetti rained down on the field in Indianapolis, the Buckeyes celebrated a historic achievement that would cement their legacy in the annals of college football.
The 2025 national championship was more than just a victory for Ohio State. It was the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For Ohio State fans, it was a long-awaited moment of glory, and for players like CJ Stroud and Marvin Harrison Jr., it was the culmination of careers that had been full of both triumphs and challenges. The Buckeyes’ victory sparked a wave of reactions from across the sports world, as pundits, former players, and coaches all weighed in on the significance of Ohio State’s remarkable achievement.
In this article, we will explore the reaction from the sports world following Ohio State’s 9th national title, highlighting how this victory has impacted the program, its players, and the broader college football landscape.
A Historic Win for a Historic Program
Ohio State’s victory in the 2025 National Championship Game was not just another title in the school’s storied history; it was an affirmation of the program’s place among the elite. With this victory, Ohio State solidified its status as one of the most successful teams in college football history, having now secured 9 national championships. The Buckeyes’ remarkable run under head coach Ryan Day has helped the program stay relevant in an era dominated by powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia.
For Day, the championship win was a crowning achievement in what has been an already successful tenure at Ohio State. After taking over the reins from Urban Meyer in 2018, Day faced the daunting task of maintaining the high standards set by his predecessor. Early on, critics questioned whether Day could match Meyer’s success, but with this national title, he has answered those doubts with authority.
Ohio State’s rise to the top this season was a testament to the program’s resilience. Despite a tough loss to Michigan in the regular season, the Buckeyes were able to regroup, refocus, and make a deep playoff run, overcoming some of the best teams in the country along the way. In the CFP semifinals, Ohio State defeated defending national champion Georgia in an instant classic, setting the stage for their victory over Notre Dame in the championship game.
The win over Notre Dame capped an incredible season for Ohio State, one that saw their offense, led by CJ Stroud, reach new heights while their defense, often maligned in previous seasons, came through in critical moments. Stroud, in particular, was instrumental in Ohio State’s championship run, delivering clutch performances in key games. In the title game, Stroud threw for over 350 yards and 4 touchdowns, with Marvin Harrison Jr. once again proving why he is one of the best wide receivers in college football.
With this national championship, Ohio State’s place in college football history is further solidified, and the Buckeyes are now firmly entrenched as one of the most successful and respected programs in the sport.
Reactions from the Sports World: Praise for Ohio State’s Championship
The Buckeyes’ victory sparked a wave of reactions from around the sports world. College football analysts, former players, coaches, and fans all weighed in on Ohio State’s remarkable season and their 9th national title. The following are some of the most notable reactions to the Buckeyes’ historic victory.
Ryan Day’s Legacy
One of the most notable storylines of Ohio State’s 2025 championship run was the continued evolution of Ryan Day as a head coach. Since taking over in 2018, Day had done everything right, from recruiting elite talent to designing high-powered offenses. However, the shadow of his predecessor, Urban Meyer, loomed large, and many questioned whether Day could truly lead the Buckeyes to the top. The victory over Notre Dame served as Day’s statement to the world that he is more than capable of maintaining Ohio State’s status as a championship contender.
Former Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins, who played under Day and had a successful tenure in Columbus, praised his former coach’s ability to handle the pressure and lead the team through adversity. “Ryan Day is the real deal,” Haskins said after the game. “He’s taken Ohio State to the next level, and this national title proves it. The way he kept the team focused after the Michigan loss showed his leadership and vision.”
Day’s ability to adjust in high-pressure situations and make key in-game decisions was also highlighted by former Buckeye coach Luke Fickell. “Ryan Day has earned his place in Ohio State history today,” Fickell said. “This win is a testament to his ability to adapt, evolve, and lead his team to victory. Ohio State fans should be proud of what he’s built.”
CJ Stroud: A Legendary Quarterback
Another key figure in Ohio State’s championship win was CJ Stroud, the Buckeyes’ star quarterback. Stroud entered the 2025 season with high expectations, and while his regular-season performances were impressive, it was his postseason play that truly cemented his legacy. Stroud’s clutch performance in the CFP semifinal against Georgia, where he threw for over 300 yards and 4 touchdowns, set the stage for his brilliant championship game. In the title game, Stroud delivered another outstanding performance, throwing for 350 yards and 4 touchdowns, leading Ohio State to a dominant victory.
Stroud’s performance in the title game earned him the coveted National Championship MVP award, and many have now placed him among the greatest quarterbacks in Ohio State history. Kirk Herbstreit, a former Ohio State quarterback and current ESPN analyst, had high praise for Stroud’s performance. “CJ Stroud was absolutely phenomenal in the championship game,” Herbstreit said. “He played with poise and confidence, and it was clear that he was ready for the moment. This national title is the perfect ending to his career at Ohio State.”
Stroud’s MVP performance in the championship game also earned him the admiration of his teammates. Marvin Harrison Jr., the Buckeyes’ standout wide receiver, was one of the many players who acknowledged Stroud’s leadership. “CJ is a special player,” Harrison said. “He’s always been the guy we can rely on. He played like a champion today, and that’s why we’re all here celebrating.”
Marvin Harrison Jr.: A Future NFL Star
Another key figure in Ohio State’s championship victory was wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who delivered a monster performance in the title game. Harrison, who is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in college football, caught two touchdown passes and finished with over 100 receiving yards in the victory over Notre Dame. His ability to make game-changing plays in big moments was evident throughout the season, and his performance in the championship game only solidified his status as one of the best players in college football.
Former NFL receiver Keyshawn Johnson expressed his admiration for Harrison’s skill set. “Marvin Harrison Jr. is the real deal,” Johnson said. “He’s got the size, the speed, and the hands to be an elite NFL player. Watching him play in the national championship, you can see why he’s going to be a star at the next level.”
Harrison’s contributions to Ohio State’s national title were invaluable, and his stock continues to rise as one of the top NFL prospects in the upcoming draft.
The College Football Community’s Reaction
The broader college football community also took notice of Ohio State’s national championship victory. Nick Saban, the legendary Alabama head coach, offered his congratulations to Ohio State, acknowledging their talent and resilience. “Ohio State played an outstanding game today,” Saban said. “They’re a well-coached team with a lot of great players. Ryan Day has done a fantastic job with that program, and they’re a deserving national champion.”
Kirby Smart, head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, echoed Saban’s sentiments, noting that Ohio State’s victory was the result of a well-rounded effort on both sides of the ball. “Ohio State has a lot of talent, and they showed it today,” Smart said. “CJ Stroud played like a veteran quarterback, and they executed at a high level. They’ve earned this championship.”
Even Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, who had led the Wolverines to victory over Ohio State in the regular season, had to tip his hat to the Buckeyes’ achievement. “Ohio State earned their place as national champions,” Harbaugh said. “They’ve got a great team, and Ryan Day has done a terrific job leading them to this point.”
Conclusion: A Legacy Cemented
Ohio State’s victory in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship has forever solidified their place in college football history. The Buckeyes’ 9th national title was the result of a remarkable season filled with high drama, unforgettable performances, and a determined team that refused to quit. From Ryan Day’s leadership to CJ Stroud’s clutch performances, this championship run will go down as one of the most memorable in Ohio State’s storied history.
As the Buckeyes bask in the glory of their national title, the sports world will continue to reflect on their achievement. Ohio State’s victory was not just a win for the team, but a triumph for the entire college football community, proving that resilience, talent, and leadership can overcome any obstacle on the road to greatness. For Ohio State, this championship is a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come, and the Buckeyes are now etched in history as one of college football’s greatest programs.
