The excitement is reaching a fever pitch as the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare to face off in the highly anticipated College Football Playoff National Championship on January 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET. This thrilling game will take place at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and will be broadcast on ESPN, making it a must-watch for college football fans everywhere.
The Road to the Championship
Both teams have fought hard to reach this momentous game. The Buckeyes, who last won the championship in 2015, showcased their strength with impressive victories over formidable opponents such as Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. Meanwhile, Notre Dame aims to end a long championship drought that dates back to their last title win in 1988, having battled through stiff competition against teams like Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State in their semifinals.
A Look at the Coaches
This matchup not only features two powerhouse programs but also two determined head coaches striving for their first national titles. Marcus Freeman leads the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and has a personal connection to Ohio State; he played for the team under legendary coach Jim Tressel. On the other hand, Ryan Day has been leading the Buckeyes into the spotlight since taking over. Both coaches are known for their strategic minds and are expected to use every ounce of their coaching finesse to guide their teams to victory.
The Star Players to Watch
Both teams have standout players that can change the course of the game. For Notre Dame, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse delivered a strong performance in the semifinals, and quarterback Riley Leonard has shown exceptional skill, passing for over 2,600 yards and rushing for an additional 866 yards this season. On the other side, Ohio State’s defense boasts talents like Jack Sawyer and Lathan Ransom, with Sawyer known for his game-clinching plays. Quarterback Will Howard will look to capitalize with his arm, aiming to connect frequently with star receiver Jeremiah Smith.
Defense or Offense: What Will Prevail?
The championship game will showcase contrasting styles of play. Ohio State’s defense has been remarkable this season, allowing just 12.2 points and showing relentless pressure with 51 sacks, ranking third nationally. Notre Dame’s defense isn’t far behind, ranking second in points allowed with an average of 14.3 points per game. Both teams’ defenses will play a crucial role in the matchup’s outcome, and the battle in the trenches will certainly be a sight to see.
Why the Stakes Are So High
This championship is more than just a trophy; it symbolizes years of hard work, dedication, and pride for both programs. For Ohio State, reclaiming a national title would solidify their standing in college football history, while Notre Dame hopes to return to glory, bettering a long stretch without a championship. Fans from both sides have high expectations, and the players are ready to deliver a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Where to Watch
As the tension builds and the big day approaches, fans are gearing up for a memorable night of football. Whether at home with friends and family or at watch parties in local communities, this game promises to be an unforgettable event. Be sure to tune in to ESPN on January 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET to catch all the excitement unfold live!
| Team | Record | Key Players | Last Title Win |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State Buckeyes | 11-2 | Will Howard, Jeremiah Smith, Jack Sawyer | 2015 |
| Notre Dame Fighting Irish | 12-1 | Riley Leonard, Jaden Greathouse, Jeremiyah Love | 1988 |