As the College Football Playoff championship unfolds, critics may highlight past losses or question the legitimacy of a two-loss team winning the national title. However, this new 12-team playoff format showcases the resilience and adaptability of teams like Ohio State and Notre Dame, who have faced intense challenges throughout the playoffs. The debate over whether these teams deserve the title is becoming outdated, as the expanded playoff system has proven to be a fairer and more comprehensive way to determine the best team in college football.

A New Standard for Championship Worthiness

The playoff expansion has introduced a rigorous test that no previous champion has had to endure. Teams now face four high-stakes games against formidable opponents, each with unique strengths and styles. This process reveals the true character and capabilities of a team, far beyond any single regular-season performance. Ohio State and Notre Dame have demonstrated exceptional growth and resilience, overcoming setbacks and proving their mettle in the most challenging conditions.

Consider the journey of these teams. Ohio State faced Texas, known for its top-tier defense, Tennessee's stout defensive line, and Oregon's potent offense. Notre Dame, on the other hand, battled Indiana's high-scoring offense, the SEC champion Georgia, and Penn State's formidable defense. These encounters have tested every aspect of the teams' abilities, from physical endurance to mental fortitude. The fact that both teams have emerged victorious in such grueling circumstances underscores their deserving status as potential champions. Even if Notre Dame lost to Northern Illinois earlier in the season, this setback served as a catalyst for improvement, leading to a more focused and determined squad. Similarly, Ohio State's losses to Michigan did not define their season; instead, they provided valuable lessons that helped the team grow and succeed in the playoffs.

Shifting Perspectives on College Football Tradition

The shift from a poll-based system to a multi-round playoff has transformed how we view college football championships. For decades, the sport emphasized perfection over performance, often crowning champions based on rankings rather than on-field results. This approach sometimes led to questionable outcomes, where teams with less impressive records were deemed champions. The new playoff format ensures that only the most deserving teams reach the final stage, having proven their worth through actual competition.

In the past, controversies surrounding the selection process were common. Teams like Auburn in 2004 and Oklahoma State in 2011 were arguably overlooked despite their strong performances. The BCS era, while innovative at the time, still left room for doubt about the legitimacy of champions. Now, with the expanded playoff, teams must earn their place through consistent excellence. This change benefits not only the participating teams but also the fans, who can now witness a more transparent and merit-based championship race. The regular season remains crucial, as it determines which teams qualify for the playoffs, but the ultimate test comes in the postseason, where only the strongest survive. Ohio State and Notre Dame have risen to this challenge, proving that they are more than worthy of the title. The winner of Monday night's game will stand as a testament to the strength and fairness of this new playoff era.