Ohio State and Notre Dame Set for Historic Clash in College Football Playoff National Championship

The stage is set for a historic College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship as No. 6 Ohio State (13-2) and No. 3 Notre Dame (14-1) face off Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This matchup, featuring two of the most storied programs in college football history, marks the culmination of the inaugural 12-team CFP and the longest season in the sport’s history.

With Ohio State seeking its sixth national title—and first since the 2014 CFP—against a Notre Dame program chasing its 12th championship and first since 1988, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST on ESPN.

The winner of this matchup will claim the ultimate prize in college football and cement its legacy in a season defined by parity and dramatic finishes. Ohio State’s journey to Atlanta has been nothing short of remarkable. Entering the playoff as the No. 8 seed, the Buckeyes are aiming to become the first team in history to defeat five top-five opponents in a single season. Meanwhile, Notre Dame, seeded No. 7, has been equally impressive, highlighted by quarterback Riley Leonard’s clutch performances and a defense that has risen to the occasion at every turn.

Ohio State quarterback Will Howard has been electric throughout the playoff, showcasing his poise and precision against elite competition. His chemistry with star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka has been key to the Buckeyes’ success. Smith, a freshman phenom, was largely neutralized by Texas in the semifinal, and Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden is sure to employ a similar game plan.

Golden’s NFL-style defense thrives on adaptability, blitzing, and man-to-man coverage, making this one of the most intriguing chess matches of the season. If Howard can handle the pressure and get the ball to his playmakers, Ohio State could have a big night. However, Notre Dame’s defense, led by ball-hawking safety Xavier Watts (13 interceptions over the past two seasons), has a knack for turning the tide in critical moments.

Ohio State running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins present a dual-threat combination that will test Notre Dame’s stout run defense. Henderson’s blazing speed and Judkins’ punishing physicality give the Buckeyes a versatile backfield capable of both grinding out tough yards and breaking off explosive plays.

Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard has been a revelation this season, proving to be a true dual threat. While his strength lies in his running ability, his competitiveness and knack for making winning plays have driven the Fighting Irish through the playoff gauntlet. Ohio State’s defense, led by standout pass rusher JT Tuimoloau (11.5 sacks, including 5.5 in the playoffs), will have to keep Leonard contained to avoid giving up big plays on the ground.

Ohio State leads the all-time series 6-2, including a pair of recent wins: 17-14 in 2023 and 21-10 in 2022. Notre Dame’s last victory over the Buckeyes came in 1936.

Notre Dame is playing its second game this season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, having defeated Georgia Tech 31-13 in October.

Both programs rank among the winningest in college football history, with Ohio State second (977 wins) and Notre Dame fourth (962 wins).

A win for the Buckeyes would give them their first national title in a decade and the distinction of being the only team to beat five top-five opponents in one season.

This championship game is not only a showcase of two powerhouse programs but also a fitting finale to a groundbreaking season in college football. With two of the game’s brightest minds—Ryan Day for Ohio State and Marcus Freeman for Notre Dame—leading their teams, fans can expect a tightly contested battle.

Will Ohio State’s offensive firepower be too much for Notre Dame’s disciplined defense? Or will Riley Leonard and the Irish offense capitalize on Ohio State’s aggressive style to end their title drought?

Monday night will decide it all, as one program will etch its name in history as the first champion of the expanded College Football Playoff.

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