In a thrilling conclusion, Ohio State claimed a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame, securing its sixth national title and first since 2014. The pivotal moment came late in the fourth quarter, when quarterback Will Howard threw a 56-yard pass to receiver Jeremiah Smith, sealing the win. The Buckeyes’ victory was especially meaningful as it marked the first national championship in college football’s new 12-team playoff format. This achievement mirrors their triumph in the inaugural four-team playoff a decade ago.
The game’s momentum shifted dramatically as Notre Dame made a fierce late-game push. Trailing 31-7, the Irish scored two touchdowns and two two-point conversions, narrowing the gap to a one-score game. Ohio State, however, thwarted the comeback when Howard threw the perfect pass to Smith. Despite Notre Dame’s fierce defense and efforts, including a clutch stop and timeouts, Smith outran his defender, setting up a field goal that clinched the win.
Ohio State’s Struggles and Resilience
Just seven weeks earlier, Ohio State’s future seemed uncertain after a devastating 13-10 loss to Michigan. The defeat led to questions about coach Ryan Day’s job security and doubts over the team’s championship potential. However, Day’s leadership turned the season around. His words echoed the heart of the team’s performance: resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being written off by many, the Buckeyes fought back and eventually achieved a victory that felt improbable only months prior.
A major factor in Ohio State’s success was its strategic use of the transfer portal. Will Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, was instrumental in their playoff run, throwing for 231 yards and two touchdowns. In particular, the 56-yard pass to Smith demonstrated Howard’s clutch playmaking ability. Running back Quinshon Judkins, another transfer, added to the Buckeyes’ offensive success, rushing for 100 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including a game-changing 70-yard run that extended Ohio State’s lead to 28-7.
Critical Errors and Missed Opportunities for Notre Dame
While Ohio State dominated much of the game, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman faced tough decisions. A failed fake punt in the third quarter allowed Ohio State to extend its lead, while a missed field goal attempt while trailing by two scores further complicated Notre Dame’s comeback efforts. Freeman’s decision to take a short field goal with less than ideal odds left some questioning the strategy. Despite these missteps, Freeman’s leadership of Notre Dame remains admirable, although the loss left lingering questions about critical moments in the game.
Ohio State’s championship run not only solidified their dominance in college football but also marked a major redemption for head coach Ryan Day. The team overcame significant doubts following their loss to Michigan and proved themselves in the expanded playoff format. The win also ended a decade-long title drought for the Buckeyes, joining a storied list of championship-winning coaches, including Urban Meyer, Jim Tressel, and Woody Hayes. The victory also placed the Big Ten back on top for consecutive titles, a first since 1942, following Michigan’s championship last year.
