Many counted Notre Dame out of the College Football Playoff after its shocking Week 2 upset loss to Northern Illinois. However, the Fighting Irish have proven the naysayers wrong, embarking on an incredible 13-game winning streak as they prepare to face off against the formidable Ohio State in the national championship.
Resilience and Determination
Part of Notre Dame’s success can be attributed to their unwavering determination. As linebacker Jack Kiser pointed out, the Irish have been fighting for their playoff spot ever since that disheartening defeat to NIU. With every game, they have demonstrated a fierce commitment to their goals. One more loss could have derailed their postseason ambitions, but instead, they have rallied together, showcasing resilience and grit by securing 13 consecutive victories.
The Challenge Ahead
As the championship game approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Rece Davis and Pete Thamel, hosts of the College GameDay Podcast, emphasize that Ohio State should not underestimate this matchup against Notre Dame. “Count out Notre Dame at your own peril,” Thamel cautioned. The Buckeyes may be loaded with talent, but the Irish have shown they can compete at the highest level.
Davis elaborated on Ohio State’s strengths, stating, “[Ohio State] looks to be a team so full of weapons that you cannot possibly decide which one to slow down without getting destroyed by the other one.” Yet, he also acknowledged that Notre Dame possesses an edge, a resilience that could lead them to their first national championship since 1988.
Winning in Different Ways
One of the lessons learned from the new 12-team playoff format is that teams must be adaptable. Notre Dame has done just that, demonstrating their versatility in various ways. They cruised past Indiana in the first round, held off a fierce comeback attempt from Georgia in the second half, and clinched a nail-biting victory against Penn State with a go-ahead field goal in the final minute. Each game has tested their mettle, and they have risen to the occasion time and again.
However, as Thamel pointed out, the playoffs can become a war of attrition. Injuries have plagued both teams, and Notre Dame has not been spared. The same can be said for Ohio State, particularly on the offensive line. How will these injuries impact the game? Will the depth of each roster be enough to withstand the pressure?
The Underdog Mentality
Despite their impressive winning streak, the Fighting Irish enter this championship game as 8.5-point underdogs according to FanDuel Sportsbook. This underdog status could work in their favor. Notre Dame has thrived on challenges, and being underestimated might just fuel their fire.
Davis and Thamel both agree that there’s something special about this Notre Dame team. “But sitting here today, in mid-late January, in this new paradigm we are in — Notre Dame has some juju,” Thamel remarked. He likened them to a hot team in the NCAA basketball tournament, emphasizing that they are clicking, firing on all cylinders, and finding ways to win.
Kickoff and Anticipation
As we gear up for the championship showdown, excitement is palpable. Kickoff between Notre Dame and Ohio State is set for Monday night at 7:30 p.m. ET, live on ESPN. Fans across the nation are eager to see how this thrilling matchup unfolds. Will Notre Dame continue their remarkable journey and claim their first national championship in over three decades? Or will Ohio State’s depth and talent prove too much to handle?
In the world of college football, anything can happen. The stage is set, and the stakes are high. This is more than just a game; it’s a battle for glory, pride, and a place in history. As the countdown to kickoff begins, one thing is certain: the Fighting Irish are ready to make their mark. Will they rise to the occasion and shock the world once again? Only time will tell.
