The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship features a highly anticipated matchup between the No. 8 seed Ohio State Buckeyes and the No. 7 seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Scheduled for January 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET, the game will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Team Overviews
Ohio State enters the championship with a 13–2 record under head coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes have demonstrated a balanced attack throughout the season, boasting the nation’s top-rated defense and a potent offense led by standout freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.
Notre Dame, led by head coach Marcus Freeman, holds a 14–1 record. The Fighting Irish have showcased a strong offensive unit, particularly in their running game, and a resilient defense. Key players include running back Jeremiyah Love and safety Xavier Watts.
Key Matchups
1. Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer vs. Notre Dame’s Aamil Wagner: The battle in the trenches between Ohio State’s defensive end Jack Sawyer and Notre Dame’s offensive tackle Aamil Wagner is expected to be pivotal. Sawyer’s ability to pressure the quarterback could disrupt Notre Dame’s offensive rhythm.
2. Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love vs. Ohio State’s Defense: Running back Jeremiyah Love has been instrumental in Notre Dame’s ground game. His performance against Ohio State’s top-ranked defense, particularly linebacker Cody Simon, will be crucial in establishing offensive momentum.
3. Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith vs. Notre Dame’s Secondary: Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has emerged as a key target for the Buckeyes. Notre Dame’s strategy to contain him, potentially involving freshman cornerback Leonard Moore, will be a determining factor in the game’s outcome.
Injury Considerations
Notre Dame has faced several injuries throughout the season, notably on the offensive line. Sophomore Charles Jagusah, who was initially ruled out for the season due to a torn pectoral muscle, has made a remarkable recovery and is expected to start in the championship game. His return bolsters an offensive line that has dealt with the loss of key players like Ashton Craig and Rocco Spindler.
Coaching Dynamics
Both head coaches, Ryan Day of Ohio State and Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame, are seeking their first national title. Their strategic decisions, particularly regarding in-game adjustments and player matchups, will be under scrutiny and could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
Broadcast Information
The game is set to kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be televised on ESPN. For viewers preferring to stream the game, options include ESPN+ and Fubo. The broadcast team features Chris Fowler (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), and Holly Rowe (sideline reporter).
Fan Engagement
Fans across the nation are gearing up for this historic matchup. In Long Island, New York, Notre Dame supporters are expected to gather at local bars to cheer on the Fighting Irish as they aim for their first national championship since 1988. Establishments are offering special deals and creating festive atmospheres to accommodate the enthusiastic fan base.
As the Buckeyes and Fighting Irish prepare to face off, the game-time decisions, player performances, and coaching strategies will be critical in determining the 2025 national champion.