Ohio State and Notre Dame are making headlines as they both showcase their potential as national championship contenders in Week 13. With thrilling performances and crucial victories, these two programs are positioning themselves for a shot at the coveted College Football Playoff.
Ohio State’s Road to the Big Ten Championship
The Buckeyes, currently ranked No. 2 in the Sporting News Top 25, took a significant step toward a Big Ten championship rematch against the top-ranked Oregon Ducks. Ohio State delivered a commanding performance against Indiana, winning decisively with a score of 38-15. This victory not only solidified their position in the rankings but also sent the Hoosiers tumbling down to No. 8.
As the Buckeyes gear up for their next challenge, they face their long-standing rival, Michigan, on November 30. This matchup is critical, especially considering Ohio State’s recent three-game losing streak in “The Game.” However, while this rivalry is steeped in tradition, many fans are eager for a different showdown.
Dreaming of a Rematch with Notre Dame
What fans are really hoping for is a rematch against Notre Dame, following last year’s nail-biting 17-14 encounter on September 23, 2023. In that game, Ohio State clinched victory with a late touchdown, taking advantage of the Irish’s miscommunication on the field, which left them with just ten players. The aftermath saw Ohio State’s coach, Ryan Day, calling out legendary coach Lou Holtz, adding more fuel to the rivalry. Just imagine the excitement of a rematch in the College Football Playoff!
Notre Dame’s Resurgence
On the other side of the equation, Notre Dame has also been making waves. After a commanding 49-14 victory over No. 19 Army at Yankee Stadium, the Irish have climbed to No. 5 in the rankings. This win sets up a crucial “win-and-in” matchup against their rival USC, a game that seemed improbable just a few weeks ago after Notre Dame’s narrow 16-14 loss to Northern Illinois on September 7.
The Irish’s resurgence is impressive, and they have demonstrated resilience and skill on the field. With a record of 10-1, they are not only back in the playoff conversation but are also looking to make a statement against USC. A victory in this upcoming clash would solidify their position and potentially set the stage for a thrilling playoff run.
Defensive Dominance
Both Ohio State and Notre Dame have showcased formidable defenses in recent weeks. Since their loss to Oregon on October 12, the Buckeyes have allowed an average of just 10.2 points per game. Meanwhile, Notre Dame has been equally impressive, giving up only 11.6 points per game over their last five contests. This defensive prowess is crucial as they head into Rivalry Week, where every point counts and every play can make a difference.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Scenarios
As the playoff picture begins to take shape, a potential matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame is tantalizing. While such a clash would not occur until the quarterfinals or semifinals, fans are eager for it to happen, regardless of the location or timing. Both teams are on an upward trajectory, and with their recent performances, they are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as Rivalry Week approaches. Ohio State has a chance to break their losing streak against Michigan, while Notre Dame aims to secure their spot against USC. The excitement is palpable, and fans are ready for what promises to be a thrilling finish to the season.
Sporting News Top 25 Rankings for Week 14
As we dive deeper into the rankings, here’s a closer look at the Sporting News Top 25 heading into Week 14:
| RANK | SCHOOL | RECORD | PVS. | WEEK 12 RESULT |
| 1 | Oregon | 11-0 | 1 | Bye |
| 2 | Ohio State | 10-1 | 2 | Beat Indiana 38-15 |
| 3 | Texas | 10-1 | 3 | Beat Kentucky 31-14 |
| 4 | Penn State | 10-1 | 4 | Beat Minnesota 26-25 |
| 5 | Notre Dame | 10-1 | 6 | Beat Army 49-14 |
| 6 | Miami, Fla. | 10-1 | 10 | Beat Wake Forest 42-14 |
| 7 | Georgia | 9-2 | 9 | Beat UMass 59-21 |
| 8 | Indiana | 10-1 | 5 | Lost to Ohio State 38-15 |
| 9 | Tennessee | 9-2 | 11 | Beat UTEP 56-0 |
| 10 | SMU | 10-1 | 14 | Beat Virginia 33-7 |
| 11 | Boise State | 10-1 | 12 | Beat Wyoming 17-13 |
| 12 | Arizona State | 9-2 | 17 | Beat BYU 28-23 |
| 13 | Iowa State | 9-2 | 20 | Beat Utah 31-28 |
| 14 | BYU | 9-2 | 13 | Lost to Arizona State |
| 15 | Clemson | 9-2 | 18 | Beat The Citadel 51-14 |
| 16 | Alabama | 8-3 | 7 | Lost to Oklahoma 24-3 |
| 17 | Ole Miss | 8-3 | 8 | Lost to Florida 24-17 |
| 18 | South Carolina | 8-3 | 21 | Beat Wofford 56-12 |
| 19 | Texas A&M | 8-3 | 15 | Lost to Auburn 43-41 |
| 20 | Tulane | 9-2 | 22 | Bye |
| 21 | Kansas State | 8-3 | 23 | Beat Cincinnati 41-15 |
| 22 | Illinois | 8-3 | 24 | Beat Rutgers 38-31 |
| 23 | Army | 9-1 | 19 | Lost to Notre Dame 49-14 |
| 24 | Colorado | 8-3 | 16 | Lost to Kansas 37-21 |
| 25 | Missouri | 8-3 | NR | Beat Mississippi State 39-20 |
With the playoff race heating up and Rivalry Week on the horizon, college football fans are in for an exhilarating finish to the season. The anticipation is building, and the stage is set for Ohio State and Notre Dame to prove they belong among the elite. Will we see a rematch that fans are dreaming of? Only time will tell!
