As the College Football Playoff National Championship approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Set in Atlanta, the showdown between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Ohio State Buckeyes promises to be nothing short of epic. Two of college football’s most storied programs are on a collision course, and fans, analysts, and pundits alike are divided on who will emerge victorious.
With a combined 21 national titles, hundreds of All-Americans, and countless NFL alumni, Notre Dame and Ohio State embody the essence of college football. But as they prepare to clash under the bright lights of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the narratives surrounding each team couldn’t be more different. Who will rise to the occasion and secure eternal glory? Here’s what the experts are saying.
Notre Dame: Redemption and a Legacy on the Line
The Fighting Irish enter this championship with a chip on their shoulder. Despite their rich history, Notre Dame has faced sharp criticism in recent years for failing to deliver on the biggest stage. Their struggles in previous playoff appearances have led to accusations that they can’t compete with the sport’s elite. This year, however, head coach Marcus Freeman has silenced the doubters.
Notre Dame’s success has been fueled by their dominant defense, led by a front seven that has wreaked havoc all season. Linebacker Jaylen Sneed has emerged as a star, while the secondary has consistently shut down elite quarterbacks. On offense, quarterback Sam Hartman has been the glue holding everything together, delivering clutch performances and showing poise in pressure-packed moments.
But questions remain. Can Notre Dame handle the physicality and speed of Ohio State? Will their offensive line hold up against the Buckeyes’ relentless pass rush? Critics argue that Notre Dame’s regular-season schedule doesn’t adequately prepare them for the caliber of talent they’ll face in Atlanta. For the Irish, this game is about more than just a championship; it’s about restoring their reputation as a true powerhouse.
Ohio State: A Dynasty in Waiting?
Ohio State, meanwhile, arrives with swagger and confidence. The Buckeyes are no strangers to the playoff stage, having made multiple appearances under head coach Ryan Day. This season has been a testament to their consistency and adaptability. Quarterback Kyle McCord has silenced early-season doubts, stepping into the spotlight and delivering jaw-dropping performances against the likes of Michigan and Penn State.
The Buckeyes’ arsenal of offensive weapons is a nightmare for any defense. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is widely regarded as the best in college football, and running back TreVeyon Henderson has added another dimension to the offense. On defense, JT Tuimoloau and the defensive line have been virtually unblockable, while their secondary has thrived under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
Still, Ohio State isn’t without its flaws. Their occasional struggles in the red zone and reliance on big plays have raised concerns about their ability to grind out tough yards against elite defenses like Notre Dame’s. And while the Buckeyes dominated Michigan to secure their playoff spot, skeptics argue that their path to Atlanta wasn’t as grueling as it could have been.
Analysts Weigh In
The debate over who will win this matchup is as fierce as the rivalry itself. Former coaches, analysts, and players have offered contrasting takes:
- Kirk Herbstreit (ESPN): “Ohio State has the edge. Their balance on offense and ability to create turnovers will be the difference. Notre Dame will keep it close, but I don’t see them matching Ohio State’s firepower.”
- Joel Klatt (FOX): “Notre Dame’s defense is championship-caliber, and Hartman’s experience gives them a slight edge. The Irish have the grit and discipline to pull off the upset.”
- Paul Finebaum (SEC Network): “This is Ohio State’s game to lose. The Buckeyes have been the more consistent team all season. Notre Dame is good, but good doesn’t cut it in the playoff.”
- Desmond Howard (ESPN): “Don’t sleep on Notre Dame. They’ve been doubted all year, and this is their chance to prove everyone wrong. Freeman will have them ready.”
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
For Notre Dame, a win would cement Marcus Freeman’s legacy as the coach who finally delivered a modern-era championship to South Bend. For Ohio State, victory would further solidify their status as one of the sport’s preeminent programs and vindicate Ryan Day’s tenure after years of playoff heartbreak.
Ultimately, this game isn’t just about two teams—it’s about pride, legacy, and the fight for supremacy. When the dust settles in Atlanta, only one giant will stand tall. Will it be the Fighting Irish, shedding the weight of past failures? Or will the Buckeyes add another chapter to their dynasty-in-the-making?
The nation will be watching.