This Monday night, fans will be treated to a thrilling college football championship instead of the usual NFL action. While the NFL has been a staple on Monday nights throughout the regular season and even during the wild-card weekend, this particular evening marks a departure from tradition. The professional league wrapped up its Monday night schedule with an impressive playoff game featuring the Los Angeles Rams dominating the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the postseason.
The NFL's 2024 season featured 22 Monday night games, including multiple games in certain weeks due to broadcasting agreements between the league and ESPN. However, for the divisional round of the playoffs, the NFL opted to schedule games on Saturday and Sunday. This decision allowed fans to enjoy two full days of playoff excitement, with matchups like the Kansas City Chiefs versus the Houston Texans and the Philadelphia Eagles facing off against the Los Angeles Rams.
In place of the NFL, ESPN will broadcast the College Football Playoff National Championship, pitting Notre Dame against Ohio State at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m., promising an intense showdown that will captivate audiences across the nation. This shift highlights the versatility of sports programming and showcases how different levels of competition can bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared excitement. Looking ahead, football enthusiasts can anticipate the return of Monday Night Football on September 8, 2025, as the NFL continues to offer high-stakes games that thrill fans week after week.