As excitement builds across the country, college football fans are gearing up for one of the biggest games of the season: the National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame. This thrilling matchup is scheduled for Monday night in Atlanta, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable clash of two powerhouse programs.
Big Game, Big Predictions
This year’s title game is drawing attention not just for the teams, but for the predictions surrounding the matchup. Multiple writers from The Athletic have weighed in, with a majority favoring Ohio State for the win. Projections have varied widely but typically lean toward Ohio State’s superior talent and strong defensive lineup. Here’s a breakdown of predictions from some of their top writers:
- Matt Baker: 27-17 in favor of Ohio State
- Scott Dochterman: 24-13 for Ohio State
- Seth Emerson: 24-17, Ohio State takes it
- Pete Sampson anticipates a close game, predicting Notre Dame will edge it at 21-20
- Audrey Snyder also sees Ohio State winning 24-14
- Kennington Smith III believes Notre Dame might surprise everyone with a 23-20 victory
Tale of Two Teams
Ohio State has been on a roll, winning three consecutive games after a tough loss to Michigan earlier this season. Their quarterback, Will Howard, has emerged as a key player, driving the team with impressive plays. Head coach Ryan Day has worked hard to prepare his team for this moment, and with the stakes so high, every play counts.
On the other hand, Notre Dame, led by quarterback Riley Leonard, is looking to continue a remarkable streak of 13 straight victories. They’ve proven they can compete at the highest level, thanks to Leonard’s playmaking abilities and a solid running game.
Injury Updates: Key Players Expected to Shine
As with any big game, injuries can play a crucial role. Notre Dame wide receiver, Beaux Collins, has been recovering from a calf injury he sustained during the CFP Semifinal against Penn State. Coach Marcus Freeman has expressed confidence, stating Collins is likely to play at full strength, which is great news for the team. Collins has had a fantastic season so far, ranking second in receptions and receiving yards while being tied for the lead in touchdown receptions.
Connections to Texas A&M
Interestingly, this National Championship game is also creating buzz around connections to Texas A&M. Several players from both Ohio State and Notre Dame have past ties to A&M, whether through coaching or previous playing experience. For example, Ohio State’s QB Will Howard previously played for Kansas State under A&M’s offensive coordinator, while Notre Dame’s running back, Jeremiyah Love, had a recruiting offer from A&M.
What’s at Stake?
The stakes are high in the world of college football, and this game has far-reaching implications. Beyond glory, the title game offers a chance to become part of sports history. Both teams are prepared to give it their all, knowing that thousands of fans will be cheering them on from the stands, while millions more watch from home.
As fans get ready for this epic showdown, excitement fills the air. Will Ohio State’s firepower lead them to victory, or can Notre Dame’s resilience pull off an upset? One thing’s for sure, the National Championship game promises to be a thrilling spectacle filled with intense competition and breathtaking plays that will be talked about for years to come.
