CFP National Championship Preview: Why Ohio State Will Triumph
Ohio State embodies what modern college football is all about—a game not just won on the field but in the boardrooms, training facilities, and through strategic investments in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals. The Buckeyes have embraced this evolution, unapologetically leveraging resources to build an unmatched powerhouse. Critics may scoff at Ohio State’s willingness to spend big, including landing Chip Kelly as their offensive coordinator, but in this era, such moves are not just a strategy—they are a necessity.
The Turning Point: A Loss That Ignited a Superteam
The loss to Michigan earlier in the season was a wake-up call for Ohio State. That defeat, while painful, recalibrated the team’s focus and exposed the pitfalls of playing conservatively. It wasn’t just a game lost; it was a defining moment that spurred the Buckeyes to harness their immense talent and commit to a more aggressive approach. Ryan Day’s coaching faced scrutiny from the fanbase, but this moment of reckoning solidified the team’s identity.
Post-Michigan, Ohio State evolved into a juggernaut. The Buckeyes steamrolled through Tennessee and Oregon, teams that were anything but pushovers. Against Texas, there were echoes of earlier struggles, but when the chips were down, the Buckeyes flipped the switch, showcasing their superiority. Defensive stalwart Jack Sawyer emerged as a legend, symbolizing the team’s resurgence.
This team isn’t just good—it’s the best in college football. And now, it knows it.
Defense Wins Championships
Notre Dame thrives on forcing opponents into mistakes and capitalizing on them. This formula has worked well throughout their season. But Ohio State’s defense is built differently. The Buckeyes’ ability to hold the line, especially in critical red-zone situations, has been a cornerstone of their success. Statistically, only Penn State outperformed Ohio State in opponent red-zone touchdown percentage—a testament to their disciplined and impenetrable defense.
Mistakes will happen; turnovers and penalties are part of the game. However, Ohio State’s ability to rebound from these moments sets them apart. The penalties that plagued them against Texas were an anomaly, not a trend. When mistakes occur, the Buckeye defense clamps down, minimizing damage and turning potential crises into mere inconveniences.
The Notre Dame Factor
Notre Dame is a formidable opponent, often underestimated. Their offense is more explosive than many realize, their special teams excel in the return game, and their defense thrives on creating turnovers. However, the Fighting Irish are most comfortable when they dictate the tempo, seizing an early lead and forcing opponents to play catch-up.
But this Ohio State team is not one to allow its opponent to dictate terms. While Notre Dame demonstrated resilience against Penn State and other strong teams, their success often hinged on staying within their comfort zone. When pushed out of that zone, the cracks begin to show.
Ohio State’s key to victory lies in asserting dominance early, as they did against Tennessee and Oregon. While Notre Dame has shown the ability to rise to the occasion, it hasn’t faced a team as talented and well-rounded as Ohio State.
Why Ohio State Will Win
The Buckeyes are not just talented—they are relentless, battle-tested, and motivated. Their roster is stacked with playmakers on both sides of the ball, and their coaching staff has demonstrated the ability to adapt and excel under pressure. If Ohio State can avoid giving Notre Dame early momentum and capitalize on their superior talent, this game could be decided before halftime.
This matchup is more than just a game—it’s a clash of two historic programs with national titles and legacies on the line. Ohio State has the tools, the mindset, and the pedigree to claim the first championship of the College Football Playoff’s expanded era. The key is to strike early, sustain the pressure, and leave no doubt about their place atop college football.
Prediction: Ohio State reaffirms its status as the premier program in the nation, capturing the championship in decisive fashion and cementing its legacy as a modern powerhouse.
