As Ohio State and Notre Dame prepare to face off in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, several players have emerged as key figures in their teams’ paths to the title game. Both teams boast talented rosters, featuring future NFL stars and breakout players who have stepped up in big moments. Here are the 10 most impactful players heading into the championship:
1. **Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State**
Smith, a freshman sensation, has been a constant headache for opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the field and make spectacular catches has been evident in the College Football Playoff (CFP), particularly in the Cotton Bowl against Texas, where the Longhorns doubled him on nearly every snap. With 13 catches for 290 yards and four touchdowns in his last two games, Smith is a major weapon Ohio State will rely on heavily. Notre Dame will need to find ways to limit his impact, especially given the lack of depth in its secondary.
2. **Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State**
Sawyer has emerged as Ohio State’s premier pass rusher, filling the void left by former stars like Joey Bosa. His play in the CFP has been exceptional, with 4.5 sacks and a dominant performance in the Cotton Bowl, including a game-sealing strip-sack and touchdown return. His disruptive presence has made him the most valuable defensive player in the CFP so far.
3. **Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame**
Leonard has been a dynamic playmaker for Notre Dame, even when his passing numbers don’t tell the whole story. As a senior transfer from Duke, he has proven his ability to carry the offense with both his arm and legs. While his passing efficiency has fluctuated, his 80 rushing yards in the win over Georgia were critical, showcasing his ability to perform when it matters most.
4. **Caleb Downs, DB, Ohio State**
A standout sophomore, Downs has been an anchor in Ohio State’s secondary. His instincts were on full display in the Cotton Bowl, where his quick reaction and ability to diagnose plays resulted in a crucial tackle for loss. With 77 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 6 passes defended this season, Downs is a future top-five NFL draft pick and a key piece in Ohio State’s defensive strategy.
5. **Xavier Watts, DB, Notre Dame**
Watts is the leader of Notre Dame’s formidable secondary, playing multiple roles in the defense. With 13 interceptions over the past two seasons, he is a game-changer who can flip the momentum with one big play. His ability to cover Ohio State’s potent receiver corps will be critical if Notre Dame hopes to slow down the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.
6. **Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State**
Jackson’s versatility has been crucial for Ohio State, especially with the injury to starting left tackle Josh Simmons. He shifted from left guard to left tackle and has excelled in protecting quarterback Kyle McCord. After a shaky start against Penn State, Jackson has been nearly flawless in pass protection, allowing just two pressures and no sacks in the CFP. His performance has been vital to Ohio State’s offensive success.
7. **TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State**
Henderson, though limited by injuries throughout his career, has shown flashes of brilliance in the CFP. Fresh and explosive, he provided a highlight-reel 75-yard touchdown reception against Texas and has averaged a career-high 7.3 yards per carry. Henderson’s ability to break off long runs will keep Notre Dame’s defense on edge throughout the game.
8. **Jaden Greathouse, WR, Notre Dame**
Though Greathouse’s overall stats may not jump off the page, he has the potential to change a game in an instant. His 54-yard touchdown in the Orange Bowl against Penn State showcased his big-play ability. Despite limited opportunities in Notre Dame’s inconsistent passing attack, Greathouse’s speed and playmaking skills can shift momentum and make him a potential game-breaker.
These players are expected to play pivotal roles in the National Championship, with Ohio State’s offensive firepower and Notre Dame’s stingy defense facing off in what promises to be a thrilling battle for the title. Their performances will undoubtedly help shape the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup.
