OHIO STATE VS NOTRE DAME: A HISTORIC MATCHUP IN ATLANTA
Updated: Feb 24, 2025
A Historic Final
What can be said about the climax of the inaugural 12-team Playoff format, featuring two of the most iconic college football programs in history? These two prestigious universities boast the largest fan bases in the United States (and beyond), with Ohio State’s following estimated at 11.6 million and Notre Dame’s at 8.22 million.
Tonight in Atlanta, these two institutions will compete for a national title that has eluded them for years: a decade for Ohio State (their last championship came in 2014 against Oregon) and far longer for Notre Dame, which must reach back to 1988 to recall its most recent triumph.
To defeat Ohio State, fans in South Bend will need to witness a historic performance, as the Fighting Irish’s last victory over the Buckeyes dates back to October 31, 1936, with a 7–2 scoreline. Since then, Ohio State has won all six subsequent meetings. Tonight, Marcus Freeman’s players aim to prevent a seventh consecutive loss to their neighbors, with Columbus only 400 km from South Bend.
How Did Notre Dame and Ohio State Get Here?
The road to Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been anything but smooth for both teams. For Notre Dame, an unexpected loss to Northern Illinois in the second week cast doubt over their season. However, the Fighting Irish rebounded, stringing together a series of victories and eliminating Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State in the playoffs, including a dominant performance in the Orange Bowl.
Ohio State’s season was also riddled with challenges, including a heartbreaking one-point loss to Oregon in the regular season and a home defeat to their archrival Michigan in the final game, igniting fan frustration and raising questions about coach Ryan Day’s strategy. Denied a spot in the Big Ten Conference final, the Buckeyes responded to adversity by defeating Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas (Cotton Bowl) to secure their place in the championship game.
The Predictions
Bookmakers favor Ohio State by 8.5 points, but many expect a much closer contest. At this level, past performances and each team’s strengths are significant factors. However, a single decisive play, a turnover, or a moment of brilliance can quickly change the game’s trajectory.
Marcus Freeman Against His Alma Mater
Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame’s head coach, will face his alma mater, Ohio State, where he played as a linebacker from 2004 to 2008. Since then, he has established himself as a respected leader, known for inspiring his players and for the football vision he developed, partly during his time at Ohio State. Tonight, Freeman will aim to prove that his Fighting Irish are ready to compete with the nation’s elite and end the season in the most remarkable way, despite the formidable challenge posed by his former program.
Keys to the Game
Containing Ohio State’s Aerial Attack:Ohio State boasts a fearsome passing game, led by Will Howard and his explosive receiving corps, including Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith. Notre Dame’s defense, anchored by safety Xavier Watts, must excel in coverage and prevent big plays to maintain balance.
Minimizing Penalties for Ohio State:In their Cotton Bowl victory over Texas, the Buckeyes committed nine penalties for 75 yards, stalling their offensive momentum. Improved discipline will be critical to avoid giving Notre Dame easy opportunities.
Establishing Notre Dame’s Ground Game:To control the clock and limit Ohio State’s possessions, Notre Dame must rely on its running back duo Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, as well as quarterback Riley Leonard’s mobility. Ohio State’s defensive line, led by Columbus prodigy Jack Sawyer, will aim to disrupt these plans.
Before Kickoff
This game is far more than a championship—it’s a clash between two legendary college football institutions, a duel that will go down in history as part of the expanded playoff era’s inaugural season. Every detail will matter, and the 60 minutes of play promise unforgettable moments. May the best team win, and may this final live up to the expectations of a passionate audience across the country and beyond.
