The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff heads toward its climax in Atlanta. On Monday night, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the unofficial epicenter of college football, will host a historic national championship clash between two powerhouse programs from the Midwest—Notre Dame and Ohio State. This marks the first time these two storied teams will meet for the national title, and the excitement is palpable.
High Stakes for Notre Dame and Ohio State
As the anticipation builds, Ohio State enters the game as an 8.5-point favorite at most sportsbooks. This matchup is particularly intriguing as it features a rematch for the third consecutive season, but this time, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both teams have their eyes set on the ultimate prize, and fans are eager to see how this rivalry unfolds on the grandest stage.
Expert Predictions: Who Will Prevail?
With the championship game looming, the Sporting News staff has weighed in on their predictions for this monumental clash. Let’s take a closer look at what the experts are saying.
Bill Bender: Ohio State 27, Notre Dame 17
Bender highlights Notre Dame’s impressive turnover battle, boasting a plus-15 ratio for the season. However, he emphasizes that they must maintain this advantage against Ohio State’s explosive offense, which capitalized on Texas’ mistakes in the semifinal. Questions loom over Notre Dame’s passing game and the health of key players like Jeremiyah Love. While the Irish defense is elite and poised for a strong showing, Bender believes Ohio State has more answers, particularly in the second half, leading to their first national championship since 2014.
Bill Trocchi: Notre Dame 23, Ohio State 20
Trocchi, who initially picked Notre Dame to win the tournament, acknowledges Ohio State’s superior talent but believes in the Irish’s potential to pull off an upset. He stresses the importance of keeping the game close and allowing Marcus Freeman’s calm demeanor to shine through. If Notre Dame can avoid a slow start and stay within striking distance, they may just pull off a victory, with a dramatic game-winning kick from Mitch Jeter’s dad capturing the moment.
Mike DeCourcy: Ohio State 28, Notre Dame 22
DeCourcy points to Ohio State’s dominance throughout the postseason, winning by an average of three touchdowns against formidable opponents like Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. He believes that the Buckeyes’ playmakers, particularly Jeremiah Smith, will shine in this matchup. Despite Notre Dame’s strong defense, DeCourcy thinks the Irish’s injuries will ultimately play a significant role in the outcome.
Morgan Moriarity: Ohio State 27, Notre Dame 21
Moriarity expresses concern over Notre Dame’s injuries, which could hinder their performance. While acknowledging the strength of the Irish defense, he believes Ohio State’s offensive depth will prove too much to handle. He predicts a close game for three quarters before the Buckeyes pull away in the fourth, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Vinnie Iyer: Notre Dame 27, Ohio State 24
Iyer is optimistic about Notre Dame’s chances, citing their mental toughness and resilience under pressure. He believes that while Ohio State may have the flashier talent, the Irish have the determination to control the game. If they can limit big plays and establish their running game, Iyer sees Notre Dame emerging victorious in a thrilling finish.
Sloan Piva: Ohio State 26, Notre Dame 17
Piva acknowledges the impressive program Marcus Freeman has built at Notre Dame but ultimately believes Ohio State’s depth and talent will prevail. He emphasizes the challenge of stopping the Buckeyes’ multifaceted offense, which poses a dilemma for the Irish defense. Piva predicts that Ohio State will continue their dominant playoff run, extending their perfect record against the spread when favored.
Elliott Pohnl: Ohio State 23, Notre Dame 10
Pohnl sees Ohio State’s talented roster as a significant advantage. He highlights the matchup between the Buckeyes’ wide receivers and Notre Dame’s secondary, questioning whether Freeman will adjust his game plan. Pohnl believes that Ohio State’s veteran defense will ultimately stifle Notre Dame’s offensive efforts, leading to a decisive victory.
A Historic Championship Awaits
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement surrounding this championship game is undeniable. With two storied programs facing off in Atlanta, fans are in for a treat. Will Ohio State’s depth and talent shine through, or will Notre Dame’s grit and determination lead them to victory?
The atmosphere will be electric, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. This matchup not only represents a clash of football titans but also a momentous occasion in college football history. As both teams prepare to leave it all on the field, one thing is certain: this national championship game will be one for the ages.
