Notre Dame and Ohio State to Clash in 2025 CFP National Championship

The first 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) has narrowed down to its final two contenders: Notre Dame and Ohio State. The seventh-seeded Fighting Irish and eighth-seeded Buckeyes will face off on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, at Atlanta‘s Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the CFP National Championship Presented by AT&T. Both teams are vying to end championship droughts, with Notre Dame seeking its first title since 1988 and Ohio State aiming for its first since winning the inaugural CFP championship a decade ago.

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, a former All-Big Ten linebacker for Ohio State, will face his alma mater in a high-stakes showdown. Freeman and the Irish have lost to Ohio State and head coach Ryan Day in each of the past two seasons. However, Freeman’s leadership has propelled Notre Dame to this historic moment, while Day looks to secure his first national championship as a head coach.

Notre Dame advanced to the championship game after a resilient performance in the semifinals against Penn State. The Irish overcame injuries and deficits, showcasing their situational awareness and execution. Key players like quarterback Sam Hartman, running back Audric Estime, and linebacker JD Bertrand have been instrumental, while backups and role players have stepped up in critical moments. Wide receiver Jaden Greathouse emerged as a standout in the semifinal, recording career highs in receptions and yards, including a game-tying 54-yard touchdown.

Ohio State, meanwhile, relied on its championship-caliber defense to secure a spot in the title game. In the semifinal against Texas, senior defensive end Jack Sawyer delivered a game-clinching play, sacking Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, forcing a fumble, and returning it 83 yards for a touchdown. The Buckeyes’ defense, led by All-American safety Caleb Downs and senior safety Lathan Ransom, has been a cornerstone of their success.

For Ohio State to win, offensive coordinator Chip Kelly must find ways to get the ball to freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who was largely contained by Texas in the semifinal. Notre Dame’s defense, which has excelled on third downs and in clutch moments, will aim to replicate Texas’ strategy. The Irish will need contributions across all phases of the game to overcome Ohio State’s talent edge.

The championship game will air on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. ET, capping off a historic season in college football.