On Monday night, college football's longest season culminates in a showdown between two powerhouse programs: the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Ohio State Buckeyes. After an intense 150-day journey that began in August, both teams have emerged victorious from three playoff games, overcoming significant challenges along the way. The championship game will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, marking the conclusion of the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP). Fans can catch the action live on various streaming platforms, including fuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and SlingTV, with free trials available.
The path to this championship has been anything but smooth for either team. Ohio State, boasting a record of 13-2, faced early-season setbacks, including a surprising home loss to Michigan. Similarly, Notre Dame, with a 14-1 record, suffered an unexpected defeat against Northern Illinois in their second game of the season. Both teams, however, used these losses as motivation, turning them into fuel for their remarkable comeback. Ohio State’s resilience was particularly evident in their victories over top-ranked opponents like Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas, while Notre Dame closed out the regular season with ten consecutive wins, ultimately securing their place in the final.
The significance of this matchup cannot be overstated. For Ohio State, it represents a chance to claim their first national title since 2014, while Notre Dame seeks its first championship since 1988. The Buckeyes enter the game as slight favorites, listed at 8.5 points by BetMGM Sportsbook, though the margin has fluctuated leading up to the event. Both teams have shown strength in different areas—Ohio State excelling in the first quarter, while Notre Dame dominates the "middle eight" minutes of each half. The contrast in performance could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Adding to the drama, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman recently signed a long-term contract extension, yet his name continues to circulate in NFL circles, notably for the Chicago Bears head coaching position. Despite the speculation, Freeman remains focused on preparing his team for the monumental challenge ahead. Meanwhile, Ohio State coach Ryan Day emphasizes the importance of winning the final game, noting that past achievements mean little if they fall short in this decisive moment.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on Atlanta, where two storied programs aim to etch their names in college football history. The stakes are high, and the anticipation is palpable, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable clash of titans. The game not only marks the end of a grueling season but also highlights the resilience and determination of both teams, who have defied expectations to reach this pivotal moment.