The stage is set for an electrifying showdown in the 2025 College Football National Championship as the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. This historic meeting between two storied programs comes as the first championship under the expanded 12-team playoff format, adding an extra layer of significance to an already monumental event.
The Buckeyes enter the title game with a 13-2 record, having battled through a gauntlet of formidable opponents in the playoff. Guided by head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State showcased their resilience and firepower with wins over Tennessee, Oregon, and a thrilling semifinal victory against Texas. Their success has been fueled by a balanced attack featuring quarterback Will Howard and breakout freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has become a household name with his spectacular plays throughout the season.
Defensively, Ohio State has been a force to reckon with, boasting one of the nation’s top-scoring and rushing defenses. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg anchors the unit, while defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau brings relentless pressure off the edge, creating headaches for opposing quarterbacks.
Notre Dame, under the leadership of head coach Marcus Freeman, arrives with a 14-1 record and a wave of momentum. The Fighting Irish secured their spot in Atlanta by dismantling Indiana, edging out a hard-fought battle with Georgia, and delivering a dominant performance against Penn State in the semifinals. The team’s success has been defined by its powerful rushing attack, led by running back Jeremiyah Love, and the dual-threat capabilities of quarterback Riley Leonard.
On defense, Notre Dame has relied on its disciplined secondary, headlined by standout freshman cornerback Leonard Moore. The unit’s ability to limit explosive plays will be crucial against Ohio State’s high-octane passing game.
1. Jeremiah Smith vs. Leonard Moore - Ohio State’s star receiver Jeremiah Smith has been nearly unstoppable, racking up yards and touchdowns with ease. However, he faces a formidable opponent in Notre Dame’s Leonard Moore, whose ball-hawking skills and physicality have shut down top receivers all season. This matchup could be the deciding factor in the game’s outcome.
2. Notre Dame’s Rushing Attack vs. Ohio State’s Run Defense - The Fighting Irish thrive on establishing the run, but they’ll face their toughest test yet against an Ohio State defense that has consistently stifled ground games. If Notre Dame can control the clock and keep the Buckeyes’ offense off the field, they’ll have a significant advantage.
3. Coaching Chess Match - Ryan Day’s offensive creativity will go head-to-head with Marcus Freeman’s defensive acumen. Freeman, aiming to become the first African American head coach to win a national title, will need to craft a game plan that neutralizes Ohio State’s explosive plays while maximizing his own team’s strengths. Not long ago, Day was seemingly on the hot seat after Ohio State's devasting loss versus Michigan. Now, he's looking to silence his critics and establish his legacy as one of the great Buckeye head coaches with a National Championship trophy.
This game promises to be a classic, with both teams bringing unique strengths to the table. Ohio State’s depth and versatility on both sides of the ball may give them a slight edge, but Notre Dame’s physicality and determination under Marcus Freeman make them a formidable opponent. Expect a nail-biter that comes down to the final possession.
Final Score Prediction: Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 27
