Ohio State is on the verge of making history. With just one game left, the Buckeyes are poised to capture the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) title, a decade after they claimed the inaugural four-team championship. Standing in their way is a formidable opponent: Notre Dame. The Buckeyes enter the matchup as a strong 9.5-point favorite, a clear indication of their dominance this season. Here are five compelling reasons why Ohio State is set to emerge victorious.
5 reasons Ohio State wins national title over Notre Dame
1. They’re simply too talented to lose
Ultimately, the Ohio State roster is a showcase of elite talent. Under the guidance of head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have excelled not only in traditional recruiting but also in the transfer portal. The additions of quarterback Will Howard, running back Quinshon Judkins, and safety Caleb Downs have significantly bolstered the team. With such a wealth of talent at their disposal, it’s hard to imagine Ohio State falling short in this championship game.
2. Jeremiah Smith is the next epic wide receiver star
One of the standout players this season has been true freshman Jeremiah Smith, who is already making waves as one of the best wide receivers in college football. With an impressive tally of 71 receptions for 1,227 yards and 14 touchdowns, Smith has become a key component of the Buckeyes’ offense. Averaging 17.3 yards per catch, he poses a constant threat on every play. Although he had a quieter performance against Texas, expect him to shine in the championship game.
3. Will Howard’s cool under pressure
Transfer quarterback Will Howard has exceeded expectations this season, throwing for 3,779 yards and 33 touchdowns. What sets Howard apart is his ability to perform under pressure. He has been particularly effective in critical moments, completing 10 of 13 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns on fourth down attempts. When the game is on the line, Howard has shown he can deliver, completing 62 of 83 passes for 770 yards, nine touchdowns, and just one interception when trailing. This composure is a significant advantage for Ohio State.
4. Ferocious 1-2 ground attack
The Buckeyes boast a dynamic duo in the backfield, featuring two of the nation’s top running backs: Treveyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Henderson has rushed for 967 yards and 10 touchdowns, while Judkins is close behind with 960 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. Their ability to share the load effectively has been remarkable, especially considering they haven’t had many resume-boosting games. While Notre Dame also has a solid ground game, Ohio State is on track to finish with two 1,000-yard rushers, making their running game a crucial factor in the title matchup.
5. The best defense in college football
When it comes to defense, Ohio State stands out as the best in the nation, allowing a mere 12.2 points per game. They also lead the country in fewest yards allowed, giving up only 251.1 yards per contest. With an impressive 51 sacks, ranking third nationally, the Buckeyes have proven they can disrupt opposing offenses. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s the attitude and tenacity of this defense that truly sets them apart. In the semifinal game against Texas, they showcased their grit by forcing a critical fourth down strip sack when the Longhorns were threatening to score. This kind of resilience will be vital against Notre Dame.
As the Buckeyes prepare to take the field against the Fighting Irish, the excitement is palpable. Ohio State has a rich history in college football, and they are determined to add another chapter to their legacy. With a combination of elite talent, a powerful offense, and an impenetrable defense, the Buckeyes have all the tools needed to secure their first 12-team CFP title.
What do you think of Ohio State’s chances in the championship game? Will they rise to the occasion and claim victory, or will Notre Dame pull off an upset? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
