The Ohio State Buckeyes meet the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2025 CFP National Championship Game
The 2025 CFP National Championship Game, or College Football Playoff), will feature a outstanding matchup. The Ohio State Buckeyes will strap on the helmets against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Scheduled for January 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. EST, the game will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
This game has a lot of sideshow elements to it that the media always brings into it. The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have made it to a national championship game for the first time since 2012. They are coached by a media darling. The Ohio State Buckeyes are making the national championship game since 2014. They are perennial contenders and always fall short, which has turned their coach into a media pariah.
Team Overviews
The Ohio State Buckeyes enter the championship with a 13–2 record. Their journey to the title game included decisive victories over Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. Head coach Ryan Day led the Buckeyes to showcase a potent offense. They also displayed a resilient defense throughout the season.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish boast a 14–1 record, with their sole loss being an early-season upset by Northern Illinois. Head coach Marcus Freeman has guided the team through impressive playoff wins against Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State. The Fighting Irish are aiming to secure their first national championship since 1988.
Key Players and Injury Reports
Ohio State Buckeyes:
- Will Howard (Quarterback): Howard has been instrumental in leading Ohio State’s offense, demonstrating both passing precision and mobility.
- Jeremiah Smith (Wide Receiver): The freshman phenom has made significant contributions, becoming a reliable target and showcasing explosive playmaking abilities.
- JT Tuimoloau (Defensive End): Tuimoloau sustained an ankle injury during the Cotton Bowl. He has confirmed his availability for the championship game. This bolsters the Buckeyes’ defensive front.
- Denzel Burke (Cornerback): Despite a shoulder injury in the semifinal, Burke is ready to play. He provides stability to Ohio State’s secondary.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish:
- Riley Leonard (Quarterback): Leonard’s dual-threat capability has been pivotal, particularly his ability to extend plays with his legs.
- Jeremiyah Love (Running Back): Love has been a consistent force in Notre Dame’s ground game. Despite concerns, he is expected to be available for the championship.
- Beaux Collins (Wide Receiver): Collins is listed as questionable due to a calf injury. His status remains uncertain and could impact the receiving corps.
- Charles Jagusah (Offensive Tackle): Overcoming a preseason pectoral injury, Jagusah is anticipated to start, reinforcing the offensive line.
2025 CFP National Championship Betting Odds and Predictions
As of January 20, 2025, Ohio State is favored by 8.5 points. The total is at 45.5. Ohio State is -385 on the moneyline. Notre Dame is +315. Analysts have offered varied predictions:
- New York Post: Highlights Ohio State’s historical performance as an underdog but notes challenges, including a recent regular-season struggle. Notre Dame’s strong defense and winning streak are emphasized, with a prediction favoring Notre Dame to cover the 8.5-point spread, anticipating a close game.
- Athlon Sports: Notes Ohio State’s top-tier offense and ability to avoid a slugfest that would favor Notre Dame. The Buckeyes’ quarterback, Will Howard, is expected to be a key factor.
- NorthJersey.com: Experts have split opinions. Some favor Ohio State’s all-around strength. Others highlight Notre Dame’s defensive capabilities and its potential for an upset.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Ohio State’s Offensive Line vs. Notre Dame’s Defensive Front: The Buckeyes’ ability to protect Will Howard against Notre Dame’s pass rush will be crucial. The Fighting Irish defense is led by standout safety Xavier Watts. They have been formidable. Their performance in pressuring the quarterback could disrupt Ohio State’s offensive rhythm.
- Notre Dame’s Ground Game vs. Ohio State’s Run Defense: Jeremiyah Love‘s effectiveness against a stout Buckeyes defense is crucial. The defense is anchored by linebacker Cody Simon. This will be a determining factor in controlling the game’s tempo.
- Perimeter Battle: The matchup is between Ohio State’s freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and Notre Dame’s freshman cornerback Leonard Moore. It is anticipated to be a focal point. This duel will test the mettle of both young talents.
Coaching Perspectives
Ryan Day, in his first national championship appearance, aims to secure Ohio State’s first title since 2014. His offensive acumen will be tested against Notre Dame’s disciplined defense.
Marcus Freeman, a former Ohio State player, leads Notre Dame into their first championship game since 2013. His intimate knowledge of the Buckeyes’ program adds an intriguing layer to the coaching dynamics.
Historical Context
This matchup marks the ninth meeting between Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The Buckeyes hold a 6–2 advantage. This includes six consecutive victories. Their last matchup, way back in 2023, was a 17–14 win for Ohio State.
The Dart Throw: Both teams have stellar defenses. Notre Dame is banged up a bit on that side of the ball. This game should be a great matchup across the board. The Buckeyes and the Leprechauns are pretty evenly matched. This one will come down to which teams makes the fewest mistakes. Whether it be turnovers, timely penalties, or breakdowns in coverage.
Handicappers Hideaway expects this game to be more high scoring than people think. Just too many athletes. We think Notre Dame covers the 8.5 point spread. Ohio State wins this game 42-36. It wouldn’t be a bad bet to place a small wager on the Notre Dame moneyline at +315. Just too good of odds to pass up in a game like this with evenly matched teams.
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