In a thrilling showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the Ohio State Buckeyes emerged victorious, defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-23 to claim the College Football Playoff National Championship. This win marks Ohio State's ninth national title, tying them with USC for fourth-most all-time in NCAA-recognized championships, and their first since the inaugural College Football Playoff in 2014.
Ohio State's journey to the championship showcased their resilience and offensive firepower. After a regular-season loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes embarked on a dominant playoff run, convincingly defeating Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas before facing Notre Dame. While the Fighting Irish mounted a strong initial drive, consuming over nine minutes of the first quarter, Ohio State's offense, led by quarterback Will Howard and a talented group of receivers, responded with authority.
Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith made a crucial impact, scoring the Buckeyes' first touchdown on a cleverly designed play. Ohio State's defense then stepped up, forcing consecutive three-and-outs, allowing their offense to build a 21-7 lead by halftime. Running back Quinshon Judkins proved instrumental, scoring two touchdowns in the second quarter, including a powerful nine-yard run and a well-executed reception.
Judkins continued his impressive performance in the second half, scoring his third touchdown on a one-yard run, extending Ohio State's lead. Notre Dame fought back, narrowing the gap to 31-15 with a touchdown pass from quarterback Riley Leonard to Jaden Greathouse and a successful two-point conversion. A subsequent Ohio State fumble gave Notre Dame another opportunity, but a missed field goal proved costly.
Despite Notre Dame managing another touchdown and two-point conversion to make it a one-score game, Ohio State sealed the victory with a clutch 57-yard reception by Smith, putting the game out of reach. Judkins finished with 100 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while Smith tallied 89 receiving yards. Howard showcased his versatility, passing for 231 yards and rushing for 57.
For Notre Dame, Leonard displayed his dual-threat abilities, passing for 240 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 40 yards and a score. Greathouse led the Irish receivers with 111 yards and two touchdowns.
