And Then There Were Two: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame in the CFP National Championship
The inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff has come down to two contenders: Ohio State and Notre Dame, set to clash in the CFP National Championship Game at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday in Atlanta.
Ohio State is aiming for its first national title since 2014, while Notre Dame looks to return to the top of college football for the first time since 1988.
Ryan Day’s Buckeyes have been dominant throughout the playoffs, defeating Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas by a combined score of 111-52. Their high-powered offense, led by Chip Kelly, has averaged 448 yards and 37 points per game, while the defense has limited opponents to just 17 points per game.
On the other side, Marcus Freeman’s Notre Dame team has leaned on a strong rushing attack and a stout defense to secure victories over Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State. The Fighting Irish have averaged 155 rushing yards per game and have also held their playoff opponents to an average of 17 points.
As the two teams prepare to face off, what will be the keys to victory, and who could emerge as the X-factor?
Ohio State’s Path to Victory
Laken Litman: For Ohio State, the key is to make quarterback Riley Leonard one-dimensional. Leonard is a dual-threat quarterback, known for his toughness and running ability, averaging 57.7 yards per game on the ground. If the Buckeyes can contain him, they’ll be in a strong position to win. Ohio State’s defense showed its prowess against Texas, notably with Jack Sawyer’s game-changing strip-sack. If they can apply similar pressure on Leonard, they should control the game.
RJ Young: Ohio State needs to be the best version of itself, as seen in its victories over Tennessee and Oregon. The Buckeyes must continue their aggressive defense, which has produced at least four sacks in each of the last three games, and their dynamic offense led by their talented wide receiver corps. Avoiding self-inflicted mistakes will be crucial.
Michael Cohen: Stopping the run is essential for Ohio State. Notre Dame has one of the top rushing attacks in the country, but their passing game is less threatening. By focusing on shutting down the run, Ohio State can force Notre Dame into uncomfortable passing situations. The Buckeyes’ third-ranked run defense will be key in this matchup.
Notre Dame’s Path to Victory
Michael Cohen: Notre Dame must win the turnover battle. Their offense has been explosive but is hampered by injuries. By creating takeaways, the Fighting Irish can limit Ohio State’s opportunities and control the game’s pace. Notre Dame leads the nation in takeaways, with a formidable defense led by Al Golden that has been opportunistic all season.
Laken Litman: Defensively, Notre Dame should follow Texas’ blueprint in containing Ohio State’s star wide receiver, Jeremiah Smith. Offensively, they need to diversify their attack and not solely rely on the run. Wide receiver Jaden Greathouse showed his big-play potential against Penn State, and keeping him involved will be crucial.
RJ Young: Notre Dame’s success hinges on their ability to run the ball effectively. Whether it’s through designed runs, options, or QB draws, controlling the clock and keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field will be vital. They’ve shown they can win with a minimal passing game, as evidenced by their victory over Georgia, and will need a similar strategy to beat Ohio State.
The X-Factors
RJ Young: Notre Dame tailback Aneyas Williams could be the game-changer. His ability to exploit mismatches in coverage, as seen against Penn State, will be crucial. His versatility as a receiver out of the backfield provides an additional threat that could trouble Ohio State’s defense.
Michael Cohen: Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson is a game-breaker. His ability to produce explosive plays, as seen in the Rose Bowl and Cotton Bowl, can shift momentum in Ohio State’s favor. His knack for long runs makes him a constant threat every time he touches the ball.
Laken Litman: Jaden Greathouse could be Notre Dame’s X-factor. His breakout performance in the Orange Bowl showed his potential to make big plays. If quarterback Riley Leonard can connect with Greathouse, it could open up the field for Notre Dame’s offense.
As the Buckeyes and Fighting Irish prepare to face off, the game will likely come down to which team can impose their style of play and who can stepup in the biggest moments.
