College Football Playoff National Championship Preview: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State
The stage is set for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, as 7-seed Notre Dame takes on 8-seed Ohio State in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday, Jan. 20. Both teams have overcome significant challenges to reach this point, with Notre Dame seeking its first national title since 1988 and Ohio State aiming for its first since 2014.
Notre Dame’s journey has been marked by resilience, as the Fighting Irish have battled through injuries and adversity to win 13 consecutive games. Star running back Jeremiyah Love has been a key factor, despite dealing with a nagging knee ailment. The Irish defense, led by CBS Sports All-American Xavier Watts, has been equally impressive, with veteran standouts like linebacker Jack Kiser and defensive lineman Howard Cross III providing stability.
Ohio State, meanwhile, has finally begun to live up to its lofty expectations, thanks in large part to freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith. The Buckeyes’ offense is loaded with elite talent, including wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Ohio State’s defense has been equally dominant, allowing no more than 21 points since an October loss to Oregon.
Key Matchups:
Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love vs. Ohio State’s defense: Can the Buckeyes contain Love and limit the Irish offense?
Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith vs. Notre Dame’s secondary: Will the Irish be able to slow down the dynamic freshman?
Notre Dame’s Xavier Watts vs. Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka: A battle of All-American talent, as Watts looks to limit Egbuka’s impact.
Prediction:
This game promises to be an instant classic, with both teams boasting elite talent and a will to win. In the end, Ohio State’s sheer depth and athleticism may prove too much for Notre Dame to overcome. Look for the Buckeyes to emerge victorious, 31-24.
