Ohio State Wins National Championship in First 12-Team College Football Playoff, Defeating Notre Dame for the Crown
In a thrilling conclusion to the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff, Ohio State has emerged as the national champion, defeating Notre Dame 31-28 in a hard-fought battle that showcased the best of college football. This victory marks Ohio State’s eighth national championship and cements the program’s place as one of the most successful in college football history.
The game, played at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, was a spectacle from start to finish. Notre Dame, which made its first appearance in a College Football Playoff final, came into the game with high expectations after an impressive season that included a dominant win in the semifinal against Georgia. However, Ohio State’s combination of explosive offense and a resilient defense proved to be too much for the Fighting Irish.
A Strong Start for the Buckeyes
Ohio State, led by head coach Ryan Day, set the tone early in the game. Quarterback Kyle McCord, who had grown into his role as the season progressed, delivered a poised performance in his biggest game yet. McCord threw for 285 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with star wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka on key plays that moved the offense down the field. Harrison, who had a standout season, was instrumental in Ohio State’s success, hauling in seven catches for 115 yards and a touchdown.
The Buckeyes took a 14-7 lead in the first half after McCord connected with Egbuka for a 45-yard touchdown pass. The two teams exchanged punches throughout the first half, with Notre Dame answering back on a touchdown run by star running back Audric Estime, but Ohio State’s offense proved to be more efficient and more explosive.
Notre Dame’s Resilience
The Fighting Irish, coached by Marcus Freeman, did not go down without a fight. Quarterback Sam Hartman, a seasoned veteran, threw for 320 yards and two touchdowns in what was a valiant effort. Notre Dame’s defense also kept the game close, forcing key turnovers that prevented Ohio State from fully pulling away. A pivotal interception late in the third quarter gave Notre Dame a chance to take the lead, and they capitalized on it with a touchdown pass from Hartman to tight end Mitchell Evans, tying the game at 21-21.
However, Ohio State’s defense, led by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive back Jyaire Brown, made critical stops when it mattered most. With the game tied at 28-28 late in the fourth quarter, Ohio State’s defense stepped up and halted a potential game-winning drive by Notre Dame, forcing them to settle for a field goal attempt that sailed wide right.
The Final Drive and Championship Moment
With just over two minutes remaining, Ohio State had one final chance to secure the championship. McCord, showing remarkable composure, led the Buckeyes down the field with a series of quick, precise throws. The drive culminated in a 22-yard field goal by Noah Ruggles with just 15 seconds left on the clock, putting Ohio State ahead 31-28.
Notre Dame had one last opportunity, but Ohio State’s defense stood strong, sacking Hartman on the final play to seal the victory and the national championship.
Looking Ahead
The victory in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff represents a new era for college football. Ohio State’s success in the expanded format further solidifies the Buckeyes as one of the nation’s elite programs. Coach Ryan Day’s leadership, combined with key performances from McCord, Harrison, and the defense, proved that Ohio State’s championship pedigree is as strong as ever.
As the celebration began and the Buckeyes lifted their eighth national championship trophy, there was an undeniable sense of accomplishment and pride within the program. Ohio State has proven it is ready to thrive in this new playoff format, and as the dust settles, fans will be eagerly anticipating what the future holds for this powerhouse program.
