BUCKEYES CLAIM THE TITLE WITH A 34-23 WIN OVER NOTRE DAME
Updated: 49 minutes ago
On this special day for the United States, celebrating both Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the inauguration of the new president, all eyes were on Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The stunning arena hosted the highly anticipated College Football National Championship between the Ohio State Buckeyes (#8) and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (#7).
While hopes for a close and thrilling game were high, the Buckeyes’ growing dominance, particularly in the first half, quickly overshadowed the Fighting Irish’s ambitions.
To say that Buckeyes fans showed up in numbers would be an understatement: a true sea of red and white filled two-thirds of the stadium, their voices roaring with energy. Yet, the start of the game hinted at a much different, more promising scenario for the University of South Bend.
A Promising Opening Drive for Notre Dame
Notre Dame opened the game on offense, showcasing immediate boldness. Riley Leonard, heroic on the opening drive, carried the ball nine times and converted two fourth-down attempts with determined runs up the middle. Coach Marcus Freeman demonstrated full trust in his quarterback, and the aggressive strategy paid off: Leonard scored the first touchdown on a short run, giving Notre Dame the initial lead.
Ohio State, however, responded with poise. Will Howard, commanding and surgically precise, gave a glimpse of his eventual Offensive MVP performance by capping off a flawless drive with an 8-yard touchdown pass to Jeremiah Smith. Smith, who had an excellent game with 5 receptions, 88 yards, and a touchdown, tied the game at 7-7, keeping everything wide open.
Ohio State Sets the Pace
The Buckeyes’ defense intensified, forcing Notre Dame to punt after a costly holding penalty. On offense, Ohio State found its rhythm with a balanced attack. Will Howard continued to shine, completing 13 consecutive passes (17/21, 231 yards, 2 TDs). He distributed the ball with remarkable ease, while Quinshon Judkins showcased his power on the ground. The running back scored his first touchdown of the day on a 9-yard run, giving Ohio State its first lead (14-7).
As Notre Dame struggled to regain the momentum from their opening drive, Ohio State capitalized, extending their lead just before halftime. A well-executed drive ended with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Howard to an uncovered Judkins, making it 21-7. The Buckeyes left the field to a thunderous ovation, their fans energized by the team’s performance. Akron’s own LeBron James, present to support his beloved team, relished the spectacle.
Judkins Delivers a Knockout Blow
Coming out of the locker room, Ohio State struck quickly. Quinshon Judkins (11 carries, 100 yards, 3 total TDs) delivered a spectacular 70-yard run, leaving Notre Dame’s defense in the dust before capping off the drive with another touchdown. The Buckeyes extended their lead to a commanding 28-7, leaving Notre Dame in a desperate position.
Despite a strong connection between Riley Leonard and Jaden Greathouse (6 receptions, 128 yards, 2 TDs), the Fighting Irish struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. A Buckeyes field goal late in the third quarter (31-7) seemed to seal the game’s fate.
Notre Dame Attempts a Comeback, but Ohio State Holds Firm
Despite a significant deficit, Notre Dame refused to give up. Leonard connected with Greathouse for a 34-yard touchdown, followed by a successful two-point conversion on a shovel pass to Jeremiyah Love, reducing the score to 31-15. Shortly after, Notre Dame’s defense forced a fumble recovery, reigniting hope among the green-clad fans. However, a missed field goal attempt by Mitch Jeter dampened the Fighting Irish’s comeback aspirations.
Ohio State kept their composure in the closing moments, thwarting Notre Dame’s efforts with a methodical drive starting from their 24-yard line. A key play—a 56-yard pass from Will Howard to standout freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith—set up a 33-yard field goal by Jayden Fielding with 26 seconds left, sealing the victory. Ten years after their title win against Oregon, Ohio State lifted the trophy once again.
Resilient Notre Dame, Dominant Ohio State
While Notre Dame left the field with regrets, their resilience until the very end showcased the Fighting Irish’s determination under Coach Freeman.
The Buckeyes’ dominance, both in the air (231 passing yards) and on the ground (214 rushing yards), was undeniable. Their offensive efficiency, as anticipated, made the difference in this championship clash. Coach Day praised his team in the post-game press conference, saying:
“These guys will now have their stories told because they etched themselves into Ohio State history as the ninth national champion, and only the third in the past 50 years,” Day said. “There have been great, great teams at Ohio State over the last 50 years—amazing teams and players. Only three have been national champions, and now these guys are one of them.”
Looking Ahead
Next season, both Notre Dame and Ohio State will face significant roster changes with the departure of key players and the arrival of promising young talent. Ohio State, however, will retain their star receiver Jeremiah Smith, who proved to be indispensable this season, keeping their explosive offense intact.
For Notre Dame, Coach Marcus Freeman will need to build on this invaluable experience and rely on the return of key players to continue pushing his team to compete at the highest level—and to pursue a title that has eluded the Fighting Irish since 1988.
Key Performances and Stats
Ohio State Buckeyes:
Will Howard: 17/21, 231 yards, 2 TD / 16 carries, 57 yards
Quinshon Judkins: 11 carries, 100 yards, 2 TD / 2 receptions, 21 yards, 1 TD
Jeremiah Smith: 7 receptions, 88 yards, 1 TD
Emeka Egbuka: 6 receptions, 64 yards
Notre Dame Fighting Irish:
Riley Leonard: 22/31, 255 yards, 2 TD / 17 carries, 40 yards, 1 TD
Jaden Greathouse: 6 receptions, 128 yards, 2 TD
Mitchell Evans: 4 receptions, 52 yards
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