Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love Eyes Ohio State Rematch in CFP Championship

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love made his championship game preference clear after the Fighting Irish’s 27-24 victory over Penn State on Thursday. Love, speaking to On3.com, expressed his desire to face Ohio State in the College Football Playoff (CFP) Championship, stating, “I want to play the best and win.” He believes Ohio State is superior to Texas, who will face the Buckeyes in the semifinal on Friday.

Love’s comments come as Ohio State continues to dominate the playoffs, outscoring opponents 83-38 in their first two games. The Buckeyes’ offense has been particularly impressive, amassing 973 yards in those victories. Quarterback Will Howard, who had only one 300-yard game during the regular season, has thrown for over 300 yards in both playoff wins, including a commanding 41-21 victory over No. 1 seed Oregon in the Rose Bowl.

The Notre Dame running back’s preference for Ohio State is also fueled by a desire for revenge. Love referenced last year’s regular-season meeting between the two teams, where Ohio State secured a 17-14 victory with a last-second touchdown by Deamonte Trayanum. Love, who rushed for 57 yards on eight carries in that game, witnessed the heartbreaking loss firsthand.

If Ohio State defeats Texas on Friday, they will advance to face Notre Dame in the CFP Championship on Jan. 20. Love’s bold remarks could serve as bulletin board material for Texas, should the Longhorns prevail. Both Ohio State and Texas have strong cases for being the top teams in the playoff, with Ohio State, despite being the lowest-seeded semifinalist at No. 8, delivering the most impressive performances so far.

The Buckeyes and Longhorns will clash at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, with the winner earning a shot at the national title against Notre Dame. Love and the Fighting Irish will be watching closely, ready to face their chosen opponent in the championship game.