Ohio State reclaimed the pinnacle of college football, vanquishing Notre Dame 34-23 in a thrilling College Football Playoff National Championship Game held at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This victory marked the Buckeyes’ ninth national title, equaling USC for the fourth-most in NCAA history and their first since claiming the inaugural CFP championship in 2014. The triumph capped a remarkable resurgence for Ohio State, who transformed into an unstoppable force following a regular-season loss to their arch-rival, Michigan. Their dominant playoff run included resounding victories over Tennessee, Oregon in the Rose Bowl, and Texas in the Cotton Bowl, demonstrating the potent offensive firepower that ultimately propelled them past Notre Dame.
However, the championship game deviated from Ohio State’s previous playoff performances. Notre Dame orchestrated a methodical opening drive, consuming over nine minutes of the first quarter and culminating in a Riley Leonard touchdown run. This impressive 18-play march showcased the Fighting Irish’s determination and the effectiveness of Leonard’s dual-threat capabilities, as he repeatedly converted crucial short-yardage situations. Despite showing signs of physical discomfort after the drive, Leonard’s early success signaled a potential upset.
Ohio State responded with a precision-engineered drive of their own, tying the game with a clever play design that left freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith wide open for a touchdown. This offensive answer shifted the momentum dramatically, as the Buckeyes’ defense then proceeded to stifle Notre Dame with consecutive three-and-outs. Capitalizing on these defensive stops, Ohio State orchestrated two more touchdown drives before halftime, both punctuated by running back Quinshon Judkins. Judkins showcased his blend of power and elusiveness, first powering through defenders for a nine-yard score and later hauling in a wide-open reception for his second touchdown.
The second half began with Judkins continuing his dominant performance, breaking a 70-yard run to set up his third touchdown of the night. This seemingly insurmountable lead was challenged, however, as Notre Dame refused to surrender. A 34-yard touchdown pass from Leonard to Jaden Greathouse, coupled with a successful two-point conversion, trimmed Ohio State’s advantage and injected renewed hope into the Fighting Irish. An Ohio State fumble further fueled Notre Dame’s comeback attempt, providing them with excellent field position.
A crucial decision by Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman to opt for a field goal on a fourth-and-goal situation proved costly, as the kick sailed wide left. While the Fighting Irish managed to narrow the deficit to a single score with another Leonard-to-Greathouse touchdown connection and a successful two-point conversion, time was running out. Facing a third-and-long situation with the game hanging in the balance, Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly dialed up a deep pass from Howard to Smith. The freshman receiver, quiet in the second half until this moment, delivered the knockout blow, securing a 57-yard reception that effectively sealed the victory for the Buckeyes.
The final minutes saw Ohio State run out the clock, securing their ninth national title. While Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard displayed impressive resilience and playmaking ability both through the air and on the ground, ultimately, Ohio State’s offensive explosiveness and clutch defensive plays proved decisive. Judkins’ three touchdowns and Smith’s crucial late-game reception highlighted the Buckeyes’ balanced attack. The victory served as a testament to their ability to overcome adversity and maintain their composure under pressure, solidifying their place among college football’s elite programs.
The game statistics reflected the compelling nature of the contest. Leonard finished with 240 passing yards and two touchdowns, complemented by 40 rushing yards and a score. Greathouse emerged as his primary target, accumulating 111 yards and two touchdowns on five receptions. For Ohio State, Smith led the receiving corps with 89 yards on five catches, including the game-sealing 57-yarder. Egbuka contributed 64 yards on six receptions, while Judkins’ impactful performance saw him rack up 100 rushing yards and three touchdowns on just 11 carries. Quarterback Will Howard efficiently managed the offense, completing 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and adding 57 rushing yards. This championship victory marked a triumphant return to the top for Ohio State, reminding the college football world of their enduring prowess.
