ESPN College GameDay host Rece Davis and insider Pete Thamel have weighed in with their predictions for the highly anticipated College Football Playoff National Championship Game featuring Ohio State and Notre Dame. With the excitement building, fans are eager to hear what the experts think about this monumental matchup.
Thamel’s Take: Ohio State’s Dominance
As the countdown to the championship game continues, Thamel expressed skepticism about Notre Dame‘s chances against the formidable Ohio State defense. He opened his analysis on this week’s College GameDay Podcast, stating that he believes the Fighting Irish will “struggle to move the ball.” With Ohio State entering the game as an 8.5-point favorite, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, the odds are stacked against Notre Dame.
“(Notre Dame’s) skill has played well in the Playoff and has gotten better as the year has gone on. They’re very good at tight end. I just really struggle seeing where they’re going to find yards,” Thamel elaborated. He acknowledged the impressive work of Irish offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, praising his ability to make halftime adjustments that turned the tide against Penn State. However, despite these commendable efforts, Thamel ultimately predicted a decisive victory for the Buckeyes.
Davis Offers a Different Perspective
While Davis agreed with much of Thamel’s assessment, he also provided a glimmer of hope for Notre Dame fans. He suggested that the game could unfold in one of two ways: either a comfortable win for Ohio State or a closely contested battle. “I think it goes one of two ways,” Davis said. “It either goes 30-13, or (Irish defensive coordinator) Al Golden comes up with enough third-down stops, he fouls Will Howard into giving them the ball a couple of times, and Notre Dame runs it enough to keep it close and then it comes down to a kick.”
He emphasized that if the game remains tight in the fourth quarter, Notre Dame could very well seize the opportunity to win. “One way or the other, (it’s) a low-scoring game and somebody gets into the low 20s and wins the game,” he added, highlighting the potential for a thrilling finish.
Key Players to Watch
Davis also pointed out the numerous weapons that Ohio State possesses, which could be a deciding factor in the game. “I just think, as much respect and admiration as I have for what Notre Dame has done and what they are as a team, there are just so many weapons on the other side,” he stated. He noted that Notre Dame may lack the outside receivers needed to challenge the Buckeyes’ strong cornerbacks, who have shown vulnerabilities at times this season.
Moreover, Davis praised the Buckeyes’ defensive lineup, mentioning the exceptional play of their safeties and linebackers. He highlighted key players like Jack Sawyer, who had a standout performance in the Cotton Bowl, and JT Tuimoloau, who has been a force throughout the playoffs. “Their interior guys have been sensational, most notably Tyliek Williams and Ty Hamilton,” he added, underscoring the depth of talent on the Buckeyes’ roster.
Final Predictions from the GameDay Crew
As the conversation progressed, both hosts shared their final predictions for the championship clash. Thamel confidently stated, “I think that this is like a 30-13 type game and Ohio State wins.” Meanwhile, Davis, while leaning towards the Buckeyes, offered a slightly different scoreline. “I’m going to call for Ohio State to win the National Championship — I’m going to say 31-16,” he concluded. However, he reiterated the importance of how the game unfolds, noting that if it’s a one-possession game in the fourth quarter, Notre Dame could emerge victorious.
The Anticipation Builds
As the national championship game approaches, the excitement is palpable. Fans from both sides are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. With Ohio State vying for their first CFP national title since 2014, and Notre Dame looking to upset the odds, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm ET from Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and it’s sure to be a spectacle that college football fans won’t want to miss.
In the end, whether you’re rooting for the Buckeyes or the Fighting Irish, one thing is clear: this championship game is set to deliver drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that will be talked about for years to come. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a night of college football that promises to be nothing short of spectacular!
