Ohio State has triumphed over Notre Dame, defeating the Fighting Irish 34-23 to clinch the 2024 College Football National Championship on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. With this victory, the Buckeyes secured their ninth national title and ended their 2024 campaign with a solid record of 14-2.
The game, which featured numerous momentum shifts, began dramatically with Notre Dame taking an early lead thanks to quarterback Riley Leonard, who scored on the opening drive. It was not long before Ohio State responded, putting up 31 unanswered points. This decisive scoring spree showcased the Buckeyes’ offensive prowess, allowing them to dominate for much of the game.
Overall, the Buckeyes’ performance highlighted their resilience and capability to bounce back after setbacks. Head coach Ryan Day, who faced intense scrutiny following Ohio State's previous loss to rival Michigan, rightly celebrated the team's determination throughout the season. "No great accomplishments are ever achieved without going through adversity," Day said, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges.
Will Howard, Ohio State's quarterback, was pivotal to the Buckeyes’ success. His passing accuracy was impressive—he completed 17 of 21 attempts for 231 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing pinpoint precision against Notre Dame’s normally tight pass defense. Notably, he made history by completing 13 consecutive passes, setting the record for the most completions at the start of any national championship game.
Howard’s success was bolstered by Quinshon Judkins, who delivered all-around explosive plays. Judkins not only contributed significantly on the ground with 100 rushing yards and three touchdowns but also caught two passes for 21 yards. His performance was integral to maintaining momentum for Ohio State.
The game unfolded with strategies reflecting the strengths and vulnerabilities of both teams. Notre Dame capitalized on their opening possession, showcasing their ability to mix run and pass plays effectively. They executed an 18-play drive stretching nearly ten minutes, demonstrating patience and methodical play calling. This culminated with Leonard's 1-yard touchdown rush, giving the Irish early confidence.
Despite the early success, Notre Dame quickly faced challenges once Ohio State found its rhythm. The Buckeyes responded immediately, orchestrated by Howard, who connected with freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith for the first Ohio State touchdown and followed it up by throwing another touchdown pass to Judkins, allowing the Buckeyes to take control of the game.
The third quarter, which began with the Buckeyes still holding strong, saw Judkins break off an impressive 70-yard rush to the Irish's 5-yard line, leading to another Ohio State touchdown. With the game progressing and the Buckeyes maintaining their lead, Notre Dame knew they needed to string together successful drives.
Notre Dame finally came alive midway through the fourth quarter, scoring consecutive touchdowns. Leonard threw to Jaden Greathouse for their first score and followed through with another two-point conversion attempt, exemplifying the resilience and fighting spirit from the Irish. They managed to trim the deficit to just eight points, leaving the crowd on the edge of their seats.
But the Buckeyes would not be denied. Ohio State responded decisively on their following drive, with Howard delivering a game-clinching 57-yard completion to Smith, placing them deep within Notre Dame's territory. Jayden Fielding later sealed the game with a field goal, solidifying Ohio State's triumph.
The victory not only broke the Buckeyes' title drought since 2014 but also secured back-to-back championships for the Big Ten Conference. Ohio State’s resilience and comeback narrative have made headlines far beyond the field, speaking volumes about their tenacity and commitment to reclaiming their status at the pinnacle of college football.
Celebrations commenced as the Buckeyes fans reveled in their team's hard-earned win. Postgame, emotions ran high; prominent sports analysts noted the significance of this success for the Buckeyes program and head coach Ryan Day, who now stands firmly among the elite coaches after overcoming collegiate football's fiercest rivalry challenges.
The story of Ohio State's season is one of rebirth, hard work, and unmatched resolve. From the ashes of early disappointment to hoisting the championship trophy, the Buckeyes have shown what it means to rise as champions, earning their place as one of college football's cornerstone programs once again.