The stage is set for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship as the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare to face off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, with millions of fans tuning in to watch two of college football's storied programs battle for supremacy.
This championship matchup carries significant weight, marking Ohio State's effort to secure its first national title since their triumphant season of 2014, when they defeated the Oregon Ducks. The Buckeyes, boasting a 13-2 record this season, have been dominant through the playoffs, clinching victories with impressive margins. They began their playoff run with a nail-biting win over the Tennessee Volunteers, defeating them 42-17. Following this, Ohio State showcased its prowess against the #1 seeded Oregon Ducks, turning the tables with a decisive 41-21 victory, before wrapping up its path to the championship with another solid win against the Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl, winning 28-14.
Notre Dame arrives at this championship with equally noteworthy accomplishments, standing tall with a 14-1 record after overcoming early-season adversity. The Fighting Irish faced unexpected challenges, including a stunning loss to Northern Illinois early on, but their resolve has been impressive. Since then, they have bounced back with 13 consecutive victories, including wins over their archrival Indiana, the formidable Georgia Bulldogs, and finally, edging out Penn State 27-24 to claim their spot in the national title game. Notre Dame's performance has been fueled by key players like standout running back Jeremiyah Love, whose contributions have been integral to their success.
Kickoff preparations are rife with intensity, with Ohio State being positioned as 8.5-point favorites, showcasing the competitive edge attributed to their recent performances. The odds reflect their solid playoff display and historical edge against Notre Dame, with the Buckeyes leading their all-time series 6-2, including past victories on close contests.
Love, whose performance has been slightly hampered by injury, has been nursing his knee but is reportedly near full capacity, indicating confidence going forward. “I feel really good with my knee without the brace...” Love explained to ESPN, emphasizing his readiness to contribute dynamically to Notre Dame's offense. His presence is expected to bring additional firepower to the Irish attack as they take on the formidable Buckeyes defense, which has been known for stifling opponents throughout the season by allowing just 12.2 points per game—the lowest average nationally.
Both teams have strengths, and college football analysts like SportsLine’s Jimmie Kaylor predict the game will be high-scoring, even with elite defenses facing off. He expects fireworks as both offenses have been prolific, propelled by experienced quarterbacks poised for decisive plays. Kaylor's expert insights come from his extensive background covering college football, giving fans valuable perspectives as they gear up for the showdown.
From broadcast to betting odds, fans are eager for the matchup to begin. ESPN will air the game, with extensive pre-match coverage starting at 5 p.m. ET, ensuring viewers are primed for the action. Betting odds are already reflecting excitement, and bets are being placed with punters distinctly favoring certain prop bets and total points.
With anticipation building and both teams preparing for battle, this championship game promises to be more than just another football match; it stands as an opportunity for glory, rebirth, and remembrances of great seasons past. Fans from both sides are poised to cheer for their teams, under the calculated lights of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where one team will rise to victory and the other will be left to ponder what once was.