For the fourth time in the College Football Playoff era, the Ohio State Buckeyes find themselves competing on the grandest stage in college football: the national championship game. The Buckeyes, led by head coach Ryan Day and a roster packed with elite talent, enter Monday’s title clash against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish as more than a touchdown favorite. It’s a familiar position for Ohio State, which has been favored in all three of its previous CFP appearances.
With a storied history in the College Football Playoff and a legacy of success, the Buckeyes are primed to deliver another standout performance. Meanwhile, Notre Dame, seeking its first national championship since 1988, is eager to prove the oddsmakers wrong and claim its place among college football’s elite.
Ohio State has thrived under the spotlight throughout its playoff history. As one of the most consistent programs in the sport, the Buckeyes have frequently been viewed as the team to beat in high-stakes matchups. This year is no exception, as they enter the national championship game riding a wave of momentum following a dominant playoff semifinal victory.
The oddsmakers have set Ohio State as a 7.5-point favorite over Notre Dame, citing the Buckeyes’ explosive offense, stout defense, and battle-tested roster as key factors. Led by quarterback Kyle McCord, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and defensive stars like J.T. Tuimoloau, Ohio State has the talent and depth to overwhelm opponents in every phase of the game.
Ryan Day, who has guided the Buckeyes to multiple playoff appearances during his tenure, downplayed the betting line but acknowledged the team’s confidence heading into the matchup.
“We don’t focus on the odds or the outside noise,” Day said. “What matters is how we prepare and how we execute on Monday night. This team knows what’s at stake, and we’re ready for the challenge.”
For Notre Dame, entering the national championship game as an underdog is nothing new. The Fighting Irish have faced criticism in the past for struggling in high-profile games, but this year’s team, under head coach Marcus Freeman, has embraced the opportunity to silence the doubters.
Notre Dame’s path to the championship has been defined by resilience and grit. Quarterback Sam Hartman, a transfer from Wake Forest, has provided leadership and stability, while the defense, anchored by linebacker JD Bertrand and safety Xavier Watts, has been among the nation’s best.
Freeman, a former Ohio State linebacker who now leads the Irish, is no stranger to the Buckeyes’ culture and success. He understands the challenge that lies ahead but is confident in his team’s ability to compete.
“We respect Ohio State, but we’re not intimidated,” Freeman said. “This is a special group of players who believe in each other and in what we’re capable of. We’re going to leave it all on the field Monday night.”
The outcome of the national championship game will likely hinge on several key matchups, starting with Ohio State’s passing attack against Notre Dame’s secondary. Marvin Harrison Jr., widely regarded as the best wide receiver in college football, poses a significant challenge for the Irish defense. How well Notre Dame’s corners and safeties handle Harrison’s explosiveness could determine whether the game remains competitive.
Another critical factor will be the battle in the trenches. Ohio State’s offensive line has been dominant all season, but Notre Dame’s defensive front, led by Howard Cross III and Rylie Mills, has shown it can pressure quarterbacks and disrupt the run game.
On the other side, Notre Dame’s offensive line will face the challenge of containing Ohio State’s fearsome pass rush, spearheaded by Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. If Hartman has time to throw, he could exploit the Buckeyes’ secondary with the help of playmakers like Audric Estime and Deion Colzie.
Monday’s national championship game is more than just a showdown between two elite programs — it’s a clash of philosophies and legacies. Ohio State seeks to add another championship to its illustrious history, while Notre Dame aims to end decades of frustration and reclaim its place atop the college football world.
As the Buckeyes enter the game as favorites once again, they will need to maintain their focus and execute at a high level to meet expectations. For the Fighting Irish, the role of underdog provides all the motivation they need to shock the world.
One thing is certain: when the final whistle blows on Monday night, college football fans will have witnessed a battle for the ages between two of the sport’s most iconic programs.