Ohio State and Notre Dame Set for Epic Clash in 2025 CFP National Championship

The longest college football season in history is down to its final chapter. Out of 132 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams, only two remain standing: Notre Dame and Ohio State.

For the Fighting Irish, Monday night presents an opportunity to end a national championship drought that dates back to 1988. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes, winners of the inaugural College Football Playoff (CFP) in 2014, are eager to add another title to their storied program after several close calls in recent years.

Where and When to Watch

The National Championship showdown between Ohio State and Notre Dame kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, airing live on ESPN.

A Closer Look at the Matchup

Recent history favors Ohio State, with the Buckeyes defeating Notre Dame in their last two meetings and maintaining an unbeaten record against the Irish since before World War II. Ohio State also cruised through the postseason, handling Tennessee and Oregon before dispatching Texas 28-14 in the semifinal, thanks to a late surge.

Quarterback Will Howard has been the driving force behind Ohio State’s success this season, boasting 3,779 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, along with seven rushing touchdowns. His top target, freshman standout Jeremiah Smith, has hauled in 71 receptions for 1,227 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Despite Ohio State’s firepower, Notre Dame has showcased grit and resilience throughout the postseason. Head coach Marcus Freeman’s squad topped Indiana 27-17 and followed up with a gutsy 23-10 victory over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, which was delayed due to the New Orleans terror attack.

In their semifinal clash against Penn State, the Irish staged a thrilling comeback from a 10-3 halftime deficit, sealing a 27-24 win with a clutch field goal by Mitch Jeter in the final seconds. Quarterback Riley Leonard’s leadership has been instrumental, with 2,606 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions this season, along with 16 rushing scores.

Interestingly, Leonard and Howard were roommates at the Manning Passing Academy last summer, adding an intriguing subplot to this title showdown.

Defensive Dominance Could Be the Deciding Factor

While both teams boast offensive firepower, defense could ultimately determine the outcome. Ohio State enters with the nation’s top defensive unit, a strength highlighted by Jack Sawyer’s game-sealing fumble recovery against Texas in the semifinal. The Buckeyes’ defensive dominance has been a defining factor all season.

Notre Dame’s defense isn’t far behind, ranking second nationally in points allowed and pass defense. However, injuries to key players like Benjamin Morrison, Jordan Botelho, and Boubacar Traore could pose a challenge against Ohio State’s potent offense.

The Coaches Weigh In

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day acknowledges the challenge ahead, emphasizing the need for focus and discipline.

“We have to play our best against Notre Dame. They’re a resilient team with great leadership, and Riley Leonard is an exceptional player. Our focus has to be entirely on this game, and nothing else,” Day said.

Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman, a former Buckeye himself, remains focused on the present rather than past meetings.

“This isn’t about last year. It’s about the opportunity in front of us. We don’t need extra motivation to get ready for the national championship,” Freeman remarked.

Player Perspectives

Howard, who has silenced doubters with his stellar play this season, is embracing the moment.

“I have to pinch myself sometimes, but this is where we expected to be. The job isn’t done yet,” he said.

Leonard, on the other hand, is fully focused on delivering Notre Dame’s first title in over three decades.

“It would mean the world to me. This is what I’ve dreamed of my whole life,” Leonard said.

Monday night will provide the answer to whether Ohio State’s firepower or Notre Dame’s resilience will prevail. Either way, fans can expect an unforgettable battle for college football’s biggest prize.