Ohio State Secures National Title with 34-23 Victory Over Notre Dame
Ohio State Secures National Title with 34-23 Victory Over Notre Dame
The Ohio State Buckeyes triumphed over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, clinching their first national title since 2014 and the program's ninth overall. Held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on January 20, this game marked the conclusion of the inaugural 12-team playoff format.
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Game Highlights
Early Momentum
Notre Dame began the game with an impressive opening drive, consuming over nine minutes and covering 75 yards in 18 plays. Quarterback Riley Leonard capped the drive with a one-yard rushing touchdown. Ohio State quickly countered with their own touchdown drive, leveling the score at 7-7.
Ohio State Dominance
The second quarter saw Ohio State taking control, scoring three consecutive touchdowns to lead 21-7 at halftime. Running back Quinshon Judkins delivered an extraordinary performance, including a 70-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter, extending the Buckeyes' lead to 28-7.
Notre Dame's Comeback Attempt
Trailing 31-7, Notre Dame mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Leonard connected with Jaden Greathouse for a 34-yard touchdown, and the Irish successfully converted two two-point attempts, narrowing the deficit to 31-23 late in the fourth quarter.
Game-Sealing Play
With under three minutes remaining and facing a critical third-and-11, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard delivered a 56-yard pass to freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith. This pivotal play set up a field goal by Jaden Fielding, extending the lead to 34-23 and sealing the championship victory.
Key Performers
Ohio State
- Will Howard: Named game MVP, completing 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards, two touchdowns, and rushing for 57 yards.
- Quinshon Judkins: Rushed for over 100 yards with three touchdowns, including a standout 70-yard run.
- Jeremiah Smith: Recorded five catches for 88 yards, including the pivotal late-game reception.
Notre Dame
- Riley Leonard: Demonstrated his dual-threat ability with strong passing and rushing contributions.
- Jaden Greathouse: Emerged as a key target during Notre Dame's valiant comeback.
Historical Context
This victory marked the first championship for Ohio State under head coach Ryan Day, who overcame significant pressure following regular-season setbacks, including a loss to Michigan. For Notre Dame, the loss extended their title drought, as they continue to seek their first national championship since 1988. Despite falling short, head coach Marcus Freeman and his team showcased resilience and strong defensive play throughout their playoff journey.
The Bigger Picture
Ohio State's triumph solidifies their place among college football's elite programs. The victory also highlights the success of the new 12-team playoff format, which brought fresh excitement and competition to the postseason. As the Buckeyes celebrate their hard-earned championship, their performance sets a high standard for the coming seasons.
Keywords
- Ohio State Buckeyes
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish
- 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship
- Quinshon Judkins
- Will Howard
- Riley Leonard
- Jeremiah Smith
- Ryan Day
- Marcus Freeman
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- College Football Playoff
- National Championship 2025
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