The Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged victorious in the College Football Playoff National Championship, defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a captivating contest that ended with a score of 34-23. The game, held on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA, was a showcase of talent, determination, and strategic gameplay. Let's dive into the key moments and highlights of this memorable championship showdown.
Ohio State's triumph was largely fueled by their dominant performance in the second quarter. The team scored 21 unanswered points, establishing a commanding 21-7 lead at halftime. This momentum continued into the third quarter, where they added another 10 points, extending their advantage to 31-7. Running back Quinshon Judkins played a pivotal role during this stretch, scoring three touchdowns that significantly impacted the game's trajectory.
Despite facing a substantial deficit, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish demonstrated remarkable resilience in the second half. They managed to score 16 points, narrowing the gap and turning the game into a one-possession contest. This comeback was highlighted by a spectacular one-handed touchdown grab by Greathouse with less than five minutes remaining, injecting renewed hope into the Fighting Irish's chances.
With Notre Dame closing in, the Buckeyes faced a critical 3rd and 11 situation. Quarterback Will Howard connected with freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith on a remarkable 57-yard reception. This play not only secured a crucial first down but also positioned Ohio State deep in the red zone, effectively sealing their championship aspirations.
Will Howard's exceptional performance earned him the title of Game MVP. He completed 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 57 rushing yards to his impressive stat line. His leadership and precision passing were instrumental in guiding the Buckeyes to victory.
This national championship victory cements coach Ryan Day's place among the esteemed coaches who have led Ohio State to championship glory, including legendary figures like Urban Meyer, Jim Tressel, Woody Hayes, and Paul Brown.
The Buckeyes' journey to the championship was far from easy. They faced and defeated several top-ranked teams, including No. 7 Tennessee, No. 1 Oregon, and No. 3 Texas, showcasing their ability to overcome adversity and emerge victorious against formidable opponents.
Looking ahead, college football fans are already speculating about the way-too-early Heisman contenders for the 2025 college football season, and which teams have the best shot at making a run for the championship next year. It's never too early to start looking at coaching changes and team rosters for any possible advantages to get a shot at the title .
As we celebrate Ohio State's victory, it's also a great time to reflect on the rich history of college football. From exploring the biggest college football stadiums to revisiting the teams with the most national championships, there's always something new to discover about this beloved sport. Delve into the longest winning streaks in college football history or explore iconic players college legacies such as Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, or Saquon Barkley. Each story adds to the enduring legacy of college football.
