Mark your calendars for an epic showdown! The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship pits the 8-seed Ohio State Buckeyes against the 7-seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This thrilling contest will take place at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday, January 20, and fans can expect fireworks as both teams vie for college football's most coveted prize.

The Fighting Irish are hungry for their first national title since 1988, while Ohio State seeks to reclaim glory after last winning it all in 2014, during the inaugural season of the College Football Playoff.

Notre Dame earned its championship spot with a heart-stopping finish in the Orange Bowl, defeating Penn State 27-24. The Irish showcased resilience by overcoming two deficits and sealing the win with a last-minute field goal, capping a playoff performance that included an impressive average victory margin of 11.5 points in earlier rounds.

On the other side, Ohio State has turned its season around dramatically. After enduring a disappointing loss to Michigan that intensified scrutiny on coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes now find themselves on the brink of a national title, garnering fresh momentum and confidence.

Notre Dame's Journey to the Championship

(7) Notre Dame, having triumphed in the Sugar and Orange Bowls, has displayed grit and determination to reach the national stage. Despite stumbling against Northern Illinois as heavy favorites in Week 2, the Irish faced adversity head-on with a series of critical victories. Key injuries, particularly to cornerback Benjamin Morrison and defensive linemen like Rylie Mills, have tested their depth, but the team has thrived on a “next man up” philosophy.

Currently, Notre Dame is riding an impressive 13-game winning streak, with eleven victories by two possessions or more. Star running back Jeremiyah Love continues to be a force despite injury concerns, and the emergence of wide receiver Jaden Greathouse has bolstered quarterback Riley Leonard’s arsenal. Defensively, standout safety Xavier Watts and veteran players like linebacker Jack Kiser form a formidable core, providing leadership and stability amid personnel challenges.

Ohio State's Resurgence

(8) Ohio State, the Rose and Cotton Bowl champions, feature one of the most talented rosters in college football, which is finally reflecting on-field success. The rejuvenation of the team can be credited in part to freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith, who has been a game-changer in the playoffs. With playoff stats showing 13 receptions for 293 yards and four touchdowns, Smith has emerged as a player to watch.

Furthermore, the Buckeyes’ offense boasts potential NFL stars like wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, providing a multi-dimensional attack. Ohio State's offensive line, despite being shorthanded, has exceeded expectations, solidifying their offense.

Ohio State’s defense has also been a revelation, allowing no more than 21 points in any game since suffering a loss to Oregon on October 12. The intimidation factor comes from a defensive front led by Jack Sawyer, along with a stellar secondary featuring former Alabama transfer Caleb Downs, bolstered by cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun.

Betting Odds and Predictions

As the anticipation builds, Ohio State enters as a 9.5-point favorite against Notre Dame. Will the Buckeyes solidify their title hopes, or can the Fighting Irish pull off a stunning upset? One thing is for certain: college football fans are in for a treat!