All eyes in the college football world are on Atlanta for Monday’s national championship game, the culmination of a season unlike any other. This year’s matchup is particularly exciting as it features two teams that wouldn’t have made the playoff field under the previous four-team structure. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere is electric!
The Road to Atlanta: Notre Dame and Ohio State’s Journey
The 11th and final College Football Playoff game in the new 12-team format showcases the remarkable resilience of both teams. Notre Dame, after an early-season setback against Northern Illinois, has rallied impressively. They have won three consecutive playoff games, showcasing a formidable defensive effort that has left fans and analysts alike in awe.
On the other hand, Ohio State faced its own challenges, hitting rock bottom with an upset loss to rival Michigan in November. However, the Buckeyes have managed to harness their immense talent, turning the tide in their favor. They are now favored to claim their first national title in a decade, and the excitement surrounding their potential victory is palpable.
Pregame Festivities: A Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
Before the Fighting Irish and Buckeyes settle it on the field, the pregame festivities will kick off with a heartfelt moment on a day of great significance for the country. The national championship game falls on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, adding a layer of meaning to the event.
R&B singer-songwriter and actress Coco Jones will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” before kickoff in Atlanta. Her performance is just one part of the pregame festivities, which will also feature the Spelman College Glee Club singing “America the Beautiful.” Additionally, Bernice King, the daughter of the iconic Martin Luther King Jr., will participate in the pregame coin toss, further honoring her father’s legacy.
A pregame tribute to Dr. King will include powerful imagery and quotes from the legendary activist, as announced by ESPN. This tribute is particularly poignant, as the game is not only being played on a day dedicated to honoring Dr. King but also coincides with Inauguration Day in America.
Significance of the National Anthem Performance
The national anthem performance carries special meaning this year, especially after the College Football Playoff was marred by a national tragedy during the quarterfinals. A terror attack in downtown New Orleans forced the postponement of the Sugar Bowl from New Year’s Day to January 2. Fans at the Superdome came together in solidarity, united in the wake of tragedy.
Unfortunately, ESPN faced backlash for not airing the national anthem before the rescheduled Sugar Bowl, prompting the network’s president of content, Blake Magnus, to publicly apologize. He acknowledged that it was a “horrible error” made by well-intentioned individuals. This year, fans can expect the national anthem performance and pregame festivities to be aired in full, allowing for a moment of unity and remembrance.
What Time Does the CFP National Championship Game Start?
As excitement builds, many fans are eager to know when to tune in. The College Football Playoff national championship game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday, January 20. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable night of college football!
Who is Coco Jones?
Now, let’s take a closer look at the talented artist set to perform the national anthem. Coco Jones is a 27-year-old R&B singer who grew up in Tennessee. Interestingly, she is the daughter of former NFL defensive lineman Mike Jones, who had a nine-season career in the league from 1991 to 1999.
Coco first gained recognition after competing in a Radio Disney competition and subsequently appeared in three Disney Channel shows. While she has continued to act, her focus has shifted towards music in recent years. In November, she released her latest extended play, which has garnered positive reviews.
In 2024, Jones won her first Grammy Award for “Best R&B Performance” and received two more nominations ahead of this year’s awards. Her rise in the music industry is a testament to her talent and hard work, making her performance at the national championship even more special.
The Matchup: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
As we approach the kickoff, the anticipation for the matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame is reaching a fever pitch. Both teams have faced their share of challenges this season, but they have emerged stronger and more determined.
Ohio State’s talent is undeniable, and they are looking to reclaim their spot at the top of college football. Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s defensive prowess has proven to be a game-changer, and they are eager to make their mark on this historic stage.
As fans prepare to cheer for their teams, the excitement surrounding this national championship game is palpable. Will Ohio State secure their first title in a decade, or will Notre Dame continue their remarkable journey and claim victory?
With the national anthem set to be performed by Coco Jones and the pregame festivities honoring Martin Luther King Jr., this championship game promises to be a memorable event that transcends the sport itself. The stage is set, and the countdown to kickoff has begun!
