After a thrilling college football season, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived on Monday night. Ohio State emerged victorious over Notre Dame with a score of 34-23, securing their place in history as the first team to win a title in the 12-team College Football Playoff era. This victory not only adds another trophy to the Buckeyes’ storied legacy but also solidifies their position as one of the sport’s most dominant powers.
Ohio State’s Championship Legacy
With this latest triumph, the Buckeyes now boast a remarkable total of nine national championships in college football. This achievement breaks a tie with Harvard, placing Ohio State in sole possession of seventh place on the all-time titles list. The last time Ohio State claimed a national title was in 2014, when they finished the season with a stellar 14-1 record under head coach Urban Meyer. That year, they clinched the Big Ten championship and capped it off with a victory over Oregon in the inaugural College Football Playoff.
But how does Ohio State’s championship count compare to other programs? The Buckeyes’ nine titles put them firmly in the conversation among college football’s elite.
Notre Dame’s Historic Success
On the other side of the field, Notre Dame entered the 2025 CFP championship with an impressive history of its own, boasting 11 national titles, which ranks fourth among all college football programs. However, it has been a long time since the Fighting Irish last tasted championship glory. Their most recent national title came during the legendary Lou Holtz era in 1988 when they defeated West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl, solidifying their place in college football lore.
The rivalry between Ohio State and Notre Dame is steeped in history, with both teams consistently vying for top honors. As we reflect on their championship successes, it’s clear that both programs have made indelible marks on the sport.
All-Time National Championships Leaderboard
When we look at the all-time national championships leaderboard, both Notre Dame and Ohio State rank in the top 10. The Fighting Irish sit in fourth place with a total of 13 championships, while the Buckeyes have now moved up to seventh with their nine titles. This ranking highlights the rich tradition and competitive spirit that both programs embody.
But who leads the pack in terms of total championships? That honor goes to Yale, a member of the Ivy League, which boasts an astounding 18 titles. However, it’s important to note that Yale has not won a championship in nearly a century, with all its titles coming before 1930. Following Yale is Alabama, which has claimed 16 championships, showcasing the dominance of the Crimson Tide in modern college football.
Championship Counts: A Closer Look
Let’s take a closer look at the championship counts of these storied programs:
- Yale: 18 titles (Last won in 1927)
- Alabama: 16 titles (Last won in 2020)
- Princeton: 15 titles (Last won in 1922)
- Notre Dame: 13 titles (Last won in 1988)
- Michigan: 10 titles (Last won in 2023)
- USC: 10 titles (Last won in 2004)
- Ohio State: 9 titles (Last won in 2025)
- Harvard: 8 titles (Last won in 1919)
- Oklahoma: 7 titles (Last won in 2000)
- Minnesota: 6 titles (Last won in 1960)
This list not only reflects the historical success of these programs but also emphasizes the competitive nature of college football. Each title represents countless hours of hard work, dedication, and passion from players and coaches alike.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Ohio State’s latest championship victory, it’s essential to consider what the future holds for both the Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish. With the landscape of college football constantly evolving, each program will undoubtedly strive to add to their championship totals. Will Notre Dame break its long championship drought? Can Ohio State continue its dominance in the playoff era?
The excitement of college football lies in its unpredictability, and as fans, we can only wait with bated breath for the next season to unfold. Each game, each play, and each moment contributes to the rich tapestry of college football history. As we reflect on the past, we also look forward to the future, eager to witness the next chapter in this storied rivalry.
The passion for college football continues to thrive, and with programs like Ohio State and Notre Dame leading the charge, the excitement is sure to remain at an all-time high. Buckle up, because the journey is far from over!
