The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship is set to be a thrilling showdown with the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes facing off against the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday, January 20, 2025. The game will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Ohio State has had an impressive run in the playoffs, easily defeating Tennessee and Oregon before a challenging semifinal against Texas that ended in a 28-14 victory. Defensive end Jack Sawyer made headlines with a pivotal 83-yard fumble return for a touchdown, helping to secure the win. In their playoff journey, the Buckeyes have showcased their dominant defensive capabilities, winning all their games by significant margins with a combined score of 111-52.
Notre Dame’s path to the championship has also been noteworthy, eliminating strong competitors like Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State. The Irish, known for their solid defense, have allowed only an average of 17 points per game in the playoffs, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses.
Regarding betting odds, Ohio State is favored by 9.5 points, with an over/under set at 45.5 total points. Notably, both teams have displayed strong performances against the spread, with Notre Dame boasting a 12-2-1 record and Ohio State sitting at 9-6 against the spread this season.
Despite a setback against Michigan earlier in the season, Ohio State rebounded effectively, bolstered by the offensive prowess of quarterback Will Howard and playmaker Jeremiah Smith. In contrast, Notre Dame’s ground game, led by running back Jeremiyah Love, has been a strong asset, contributing significantly to their success.
The matchup promises to be closely contested, with both teams exhibiting exceptional defense and dynamic offenses. Predictions indicate a favorable outcome for one side, which has proven successful over 60% of the time in simulations.
This championship game represents a significant moment for both teams, and regardless of the outcome, it will no doubt be a hard-fought battle that showcases the talent and determination of college football’s elite. Fans eagerly await this clash, anticipating an unforgettable night of action on the gridiron.