The Ohio State football team is gearing up for a pivotal match against Notre Dame in the national championship game on January 20th, with a significant boost to their defensive lineup. Coach Ryan Day announced that cornerback Denzel Burke will be available for the contest after sitting out much of the second half of their Cotton Bowl victory over Texas due to an upper-body concern. Day emphasized that the decision to rest Burke was purely precautionary and not related to his performance. The team relied on Jermaine Mathews, who stepped up impressively, playing nearly half of the snaps against Texas.

Preparations for the upcoming clash are intense, with Day addressing several key areas of focus. He highlighted the need for improved offensive efficiency, noting that five drives were squandered against Texas—four due to penalties and one resulting from an interception. "We must perform at a higher level if we want to secure this win," Day stressed. Reflecting on the new 12-team playoff format, Day expressed gratitude for the opportunity it presents, acknowledging that setbacks provide valuable lessons for both players and coaches. Additionally, he praised Notre Dame’s quarterback Riley Leonard as a formidable competitor and leader, someone whose competitive spirit he admires.

Looking ahead, Ohio State is determined to capitalize on the momentum from their recent victories. The team's resilience and adaptability have been crucial, as evidenced by standout moments like Jack Sawyer's scoop-and-score, which Day described as a historic play for the Buckeyes. Despite past challenges, the team remains focused on the task at hand, ready to face Notre Dame with renewed vigor and strategic preparation. This championship game represents not only a test of skill but also a testament to the unwavering dedication and perseverance of the entire Ohio State program.