This season in college football has been marked by notable upset losses, particularly highlighting the cases of Notre Dame and Ohio State. In previous years, such defeats might have severely impacted a team's prospects for a national title, yet the introduction of a 12-team playoff system this year means both teams are still in contention.
In a key semifinal matchup, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured a 28-14 victory over Texas on January 10, 2025. This win paves the way for a highly anticipated encounter against the Fighting Irish on January 20, 2025. Since suffering a narrow loss of 13-10 to Michigan in November, Ohio State has remained unbeaten. On the other side, Notre Dame rebounded impressively from its early season defeat, recovering from a 16-14 loss to Northern Illinois back in September.
Ohio State aims for its sixth AP national title and its first since the College Football Playoff system was established in 2014. Meanwhile, Notre Dame is pursuing its 12th overall championship, which would mark its first since 1988. This upcoming clash not only features a Big Ten versus independent matchup but also signifies the second consecutive year that the Southeastern Conference will not have a representative in the championship after dominating the previous eight years.
According to BetMGM, Ohio State enters the game as a 9.5-point favorite. The Buckeyes have the historical advantage, having emerged victorious against Notre Dame in their previous meetings in both 2022 and 2023, leading the series 6-2.
The unexpected losses both teams encountered helped set the stage for their respective comebacks throughout the season. Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman highlighted that it is during times of great adversity that true character is revealed. Reflecting on their earlier loss to Northern Illinois, he emphasized the importance of choosing selflessness over personal ambition. Similarly, Ohio State coach Ryan Day remarked on the significance of overcoming challenges and the life lessons involved in their journey.
This championship bout will see Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard face off against Ohio State's Will Howard, both of whom joined their respective teams through the transfer portal prior to the season. Although financial incentives through NIL played a role in their decisions, both players expressed a desire to achieve a title as the primary motivation for their transfers. Leonard, who came from Duke, and Howard, who moved from Kansas State, both recognized the talent surrounding them and the potential to compete for a national championship as key factors in their choices.
The matchup will also spotlight the defensive prowess of both teams. Ohio State's defense ended its recent victory on a high note, turning a first-and-goal situation into a touchdown, underscoring their position as the leading team in the nation for yards and points allowed. Notre Dame also boasts a formidable defense, ranking ninth in fewest yards allowed and third in turnover differential, even amidst challenges in their recent performances.
As both teams prepare for the playoff final, the structure of the playoff seeding has raised discussions about competitiveness and fairness. With top-seeded conference champions facing early exits, it has indicated potential flaws in the bracket and overall ranking system. The outcomes of the quarterfinals and semifinals have suggested that while various teams exhibit strong capabilities, the true dominance may be lacking in the current landscape, especially in light of the evolving dynamics brought about by NIL and the transfer portal.
