In a historic showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured their first national title since 2014 by defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-23. This victory crowns them as the inaugural champions of the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) format.
Game Highlights
Early Setback: Notre Dame initiated the scoring with a methodical 19-play drive, culminating in a touchdown run by quarterback Riley Leonard. This early lead showcased the Fighting Irish’s offensive prowess.
Ohio State’s Response: The Buckeyes quickly adjusted, with quarterback Will Howard completing his first 13 passes. Howard amassed 231 passing yards and two touchdowns, complemented by 58 rushing yards, orchestrating a balanced and potent offensive attack.
Ground Game Dominance: Running back Quinshon Judkins spearheaded Ohio State’s rushing offense, contributing 100 yards and three touchdowns. The team collectively accumulated 214 rushing yards, effectively wearing down Notre Dame’s defence.
Pivotal Play: A critical moment occurred late in the game when Howard connected with freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith on a 56-yard pass during a third-and-11 situation. This play set up a decisive field goal, extending the lead and quelling Notre Dame’s comeback aspirations.
Jeremiah Smith’s Impact
Freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith not only delivered in clutch moments but also set a national record with his 15th receiving touchdown—the most ever by a true freshman and the second-most in Ohio State history.
Coaching and Strategy
Head coach Ryan Day, previously under scrutiny, demonstrated strategic acumen throughout the postseason. The Buckeyes’ offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, also received accolades for innovative play-calling that kept opponents off balance.
Notre Dame’s Efforts
Despite the loss, Notre Dame exhibited resilience. A notable drive included a 19-play sequence resulting in a touchdown, showcasing their offensive capabilities. However, critical errors, such as a missed 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, hindered their momentum.
Historical Context
Ohio State’s Legacy: This triumph marks Ohio State’s ninth national championship, reinforcing its storied legacy in college football.
Big Ten’s Ascendancy: With consecutive national titles—Michigan in 2024 and Ohio State in 2025—the Big Ten Conference underscores its dominance in the current college football landscape.
NFL Draft Prospects
The championship spotlighted several players poised for NFL careers:
- Jack Sawyer (DE, Ohio State): Showcased defensive prowess throughout the playoffs.
- Riley Leonard (QB, Notre Dame): Demonstrated dual-threat capabilities, attracting NFL scouts’ attention.
- Donovan Jackson (OL, Ohio State): Anchored the offensive line, contributing to the team’s balanced attack.
Conclusion
Ohio State’s victory in the inaugural 12-team CFP not only adds a significant chapter to its history but also sets a precedent for future playoff formats. The Buckeyes’ blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, exemplified by players like Jeremiah Smith, position them favourably for continued success in the evolving landscape of college football.
