2025 National Championship Game Predictions and Odds: Ohio State-Notre Dame Picks for the College Football Playoff

The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame is set to be a monumental clash, one that promises to captivate college football fans across the nation. Both teams are coming off strong seasons and have earned their place in the final game, but as with every championship matchup, predicting the outcome is a complex and exciting endeavor. The game is expected to showcase high levels of skill, strategy, and intensity, with both programs eager to claim the ultimate prize in college football.

This article will dive deep into the matchup, analyzing the key factors that will determine the outcome, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, and offering expert predictions. Additionally, we will examine the betting odds and potential wagers surrounding this highly anticipated game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Ohio State, Notre Dame, or simply a college football enthusiast, these insights will help you prepare for one of the most important games in recent college football history.

Ohio State’s Path to the National Championship

Ohio State has been one of the most consistent programs in college football over the past few decades. The Buckeyes have a rich history of success, boasting multiple national championships and Heisman Trophy winners. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has continued its elite status, winning Big Ten championships and remaining a perennial contender for the College Football Playoff (CFP).

The 2025 season has been no different for the Buckeyes. They finished the regular season with a remarkable record and secured a spot in the CFP with a dominant offense and an increasingly solid defense. A key to Ohio State’s success has been the explosive playmaking ability of its offense, particularly through its star players, including quarterback Kyle McCord, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and running back TreVeyon Henderson.

• Kyle McCord has shown tremendous poise and leadership throughout the season. While not always flashy, McCord has been efficient and accurate, managing the game well in critical moments. He has a high football IQ and has demonstrated the ability to perform in clutch situations.
• Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the most electric wide receivers in college football. His combination of size, speed, and catching ability makes him a matchup nightmare for any defense. Harrison’s ability to stretch the field and create separation will be a crucial factor in this game.
• TreVeyon Henderson has been a dynamic force in Ohio State’s backfield. His combination of speed, vision, and strength has allowed the Buckeyes to maintain a balanced offensive attack. Ohio State’s ability to run the football effectively will be key to keeping Notre Dame’s defense off-balance.

Defensively, Ohio State has been opportunistic, creating turnovers and applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Defensive lineman J.T. Tuimoloau has emerged as a leader on that side of the ball, and the secondary, anchored by players like Denzel Burke, has been effective in limiting big plays. If Ohio State can get consistent pressure on Notre Dame’s quarterback, they will be in a strong position to win.

Notre Dame’s Path to the National Championship

Notre Dame, under head coach Marcus Freeman, has also been one of college football’s most respected programs. Known for its rich tradition and history of success, the Fighting Irish have spent years trying to return to the mountaintop. After several near-misses, including a trip to the 2020 CFP semifinals, Notre Dame is back in the national championship conversation, and they are hungry for redemption.

The 2025 season has been a breakthrough year for Freeman and his team. Led by veteran quarterback Sam Hartman, Notre Dame has demonstrated a balanced offensive attack and a tough, physical defense. Hartman’s arrival as a transfer from Wake Forest has been a game-changer for the Fighting Irish, as he brings both leadership and experience to the quarterback position.

• Sam Hartman has been one of the top quarterbacks in college football this season. He has consistently shown the ability to make big throws and manage the game under pressure. Hartman’s arm strength and poise will be key in leading the offense against Ohio State’s stout defense.
• Audric Estime has been a dominant force in the backfield for Notre Dame. His physical running style has allowed the Irish to control the clock and wear down defenses. Estime’s ability to pick up yards after contact will be crucial in establishing a strong running game against Ohio State’s front seven.
• Michael Mayer, one of the best tight ends in the country, will be a key player to watch for Notre Dame. Mayer’s ability to create mismatches in the passing game will provide Hartman with a reliable target in crucial situations.

Defensively, Notre Dame has been strong all year, with a unit that excels at getting after the quarterback and stifling opposing offenses. Led by standout linebacker JD Bertrand and defensive lineman Isaiah Foskey, the Irish defense has the ability to cause chaos in the backfield. The secondary, including playmakers like Benjamin Morrison, has been strong at limiting big plays and forcing turnovers. If Notre Dame’s defense can slow down Ohio State’s explosive offense, the Irish will have a chance to win the game.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Ohio State’s Offensive Line vs. Notre Dame’s Defensive Line: Ohio State’s offensive line will need to protect Kyle McCord from the pressure that Notre Dame’s defensive line, led by Isaiah Foskey, can generate. Foskey is a top pass rusher, and if he’s able to disrupt McCord’s rhythm, it could be a long night for the Buckeyes. On the other hand, Ohio State’s offensive line has been solid this season and will need to give McCord enough time to find Marvin Harrison Jr. and other targets down the field.
2. Sam Hartman vs. Ohio State’s Secondary: Sam Hartman has been one of the best quarterbacks in the country, and he’ll need to be at his best against a talented Ohio State secondary that features players like Denzel Burke and Lathan Ransom. Hartman’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes will be key to Notre Dame’s success. Ohio State will look to pressure Hartman and force him into mistakes, but if Hartman can find his rhythm, he can exploit Ohio State’s defense.
3. The Running Game: Both teams rely heavily on their running backs to establish a physical presence and control the game’s tempo. TreVeyon Henderson and Audric Estime are two of the most dynamic running backs in the country, and whoever is able to win the battle in the trenches and gain positive yardage on the ground will have a significant advantage. A strong running game will also help open up play-action opportunities for both quarterbacks.
4. Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Notre Dame’s Secondary: Marvin Harrison Jr. has been one of the most dominant wide receivers in college football this season. Notre Dame’s secondary, led by Benjamin Morrison, will need to contain Harrison and limit his big-play ability. If Harrison is able to exploit Notre Dame’s secondary, Ohio State will be able to move the ball with ease and put pressure on the Irish defense.

Betting Odds and Predictions

As the National Championship game approaches, the betting odds reflect the highly competitive nature of this matchup. Both teams have their strengths, and the odds show that this is expected to be a close game. Here’s a breakdown of the key betting lines and expert predictions:

1. Point Spread: The current point spread for the game has Ohio State favored by 3.5 points. This reflects the Buckeyes’ status as the slightly stronger team on paper, but Notre Dame’s resilience and balance make them a worthy challenger. A 3.5-point spread suggests that this game will be a nail-biter, with the result likely to come down to the final moments.
2. Over/Under: The over/under for the game is set at 55.5 points. This total reflects the expectation of a high-scoring game, with both teams possessing explosive offenses. Ohio State’s ability to score quickly and Notre Dame’s balanced attack should lead to a fast-paced game, but both teams also feature strong defenses that could limit scoring in key moments.
3. Moneyline: The moneyline for the game has Ohio State at -160 and Notre Dame at +135. This suggests that Ohio State is slightly favored to win outright, but Notre Dame has a solid chance at pulling off the upset. With the odds so close, this is a game that could go either way, and bettors will need to carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of both teams.

Expert Predictions

As we look ahead to the 2025 National Championship game, the consensus among experts is that this will be one of the most tightly contested championship games in recent memory. Both teams have the talent to win, and the outcome will likely be determined by who can execute in key moments.

• Ohio State is favored due to its explosive offense, led by Kyle McCord and Marvin Harrison Jr., as well as its opportunistic defense. The Buckeyes’ ability to score quickly and disrupt Sam Hartman’s rhythm could be the difference in the game.
• Notre Dame is seen as a strong contender due to its balanced attack and physical defense. If the Irish can run the ball effectively with Audric Estime and create turnovers, they could frustrate Ohio State’s offense and control the tempo of the game.