COLUMBUS, Ohio — The betting line for Ohio State vs. Notre Dame football in the National Championship game opened with the Buckeyes favored by about 10 points.
It has since dropped by two points, suggesting the matchup in Atlanta on Monday could be closer that initially expected.
Ohio State’s receivers vs. Notre Dame’s secondary
Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate didn’t shy away from hinting at the Buckeyes’ gameplan heading into Monday.
However, they mainly utilized their legs when needing to extend passing plays. Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard can do that while also heavily factoring into designed runs.
His 158 carries rank sixth nationally among non-running backs. For context, OSU’s Will Howard — who is a duel-threat option — has 82 carries.
“He’s a huge part of that will to just get it done,” linebacker Sonny Styles said. “I think you see a lot of times on fourth-and-1s, fourth-and-2s or third-and-3s, third-and-6s, they give him the ball. I think that’s their guy.”
Containing his mobility will be pivotal with linebacker Cody Simon as a likely spy on Leonard.
Mike Denbrock vs. Jim Knowles
Notre Dame’s offense has leaned on the running game.
The Fighting Irish rank 14th nationally with 210.8 rushing yards per game. They’re anchored by running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price who have combined for nearly 2,000 rushing yards this season.
Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowlesknows Notre Dame will try to bring a run-heavy attack. Will that lead to any twists from Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock?
It’s unlikely the Fighting Irish pick Monday to have Leonard play as a traditional pocket passer.
However, it could be an opportunity for tricks plays in hopes of catching Ohio State leaning toward stopping the run.