Four guys to keep an eye on when Notre Dame football plays Ohio State for a national title

Four Key Players to Watch in the Notre Dame vs. Ohio State National Championship Game

As college football reaches its pinnacle with the national championship on the line, Notre Dame and Ohio State, two of the most storied programs in the sport, will square off in a highly anticipated showdown. Both teams are rich in tradition and have rosters filled with talented players, but there are four key individuals whose performances could prove decisive in this matchup. Let’s break down the players to keep an eye on during this national championship game: two from each team who will play pivotal roles in determining the outcome.

1. Sam Hartman – Quarterback, Notre Dame

The leader of the Notre Dame offense, Sam Hartman, is the first player to watch in this national title game. A graduate transfer from Wake Forest, Hartman brings a wealth of experience and the kind of leadership that could prove invaluable on the biggest stage of his career.

Why Hartman is Key:
Hartman has been an instrumental part of Notre Dame’s success this season, and he’s the player who will drive the Irish’s offensive game plan. He has the ability to throw both on the move and from the pocket, with a deep ball that is capable of stretching the defense. Against Ohio State, a team with a history of having playmakers on defense, Hartman will need to make quick decisions and find rhythm early to avoid falling behind. His ability to manage the tempo of the game and make big throws under pressure could very well determine the outcome of the game.

What to Expect:
Hartman will be tested by Ohio State’s pass rush, led by their talented defensive line, and by their secondary, which has seen significant improvements. He’ll need to make accurate throws under pressure and capitalize on any missteps from Ohio State’s defense. Furthermore, Hartman’s ability to manage the game, whether through ball control or converting key third downs, will be critical.

2. Audric Estime – Running Back, Notre Dame

Another player on Notre Dame’s roster to watch closely is running back Audric Estime. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing in at 225 pounds, Estime is a physical runner with the ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact. His downhill running style makes him a constant threat in both the run and short passing game.

Why Estime is Key:
Ohio State’s defense, while talented, can be vulnerable to powerful, north-south running attacks. Estime will play a significant role in keeping the Buckeyes’ offense off the field by establishing the ground game and chewing up clock. His physicality and ability to gain yards after contact will be pivotal in helping Notre Dame control the line of scrimmage and wear down Ohio State’s defensive front. Additionally, Estime’s ability to break free for big runs could be a game-changer in the second half.

What to Expect:
Estime will need to carry the load on the ground for Notre Dame, especially in short-yardage situations. His ability to find holes, evade tacklers, and keep the chains moving will be critical to keeping the Notre Dame offense balanced. Look for Estime to play a role in both the run and pass game, particularly with screens and checkdowns when Ohio State’s pass rush gets aggressive.

3. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver, Ohio State

One of the most electrifying players in college football, Marvin Harrison Jr. has lived up to his billing as a future NFL star. As the son of NFL Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, Jr. has developed into one of the best wide receivers in the country. His combination of size (6’4″, 205 lbs), speed, and ball skills makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing secondaries.

Why Harrison is Key:
Harrison Jr. is Ohio State’s primary weapon in the passing game, and his ability to take over a game is well documented. Notre Dame will need to make sure they have coverage schemes that can contain Harrison Jr., especially on deep routes. With his impressive ability to adjust to the ball and make acrobatic catches, he can change the game with a single play. His ability to get open and put pressure on the secondary will be crucial for Ohio State to move the ball and put points on the board.

What to Expect:
Harrison Jr. will likely be matched up against Notre Dame’s best cornerbacks, including Cam Hart. Notre Dame’s defense must stay disciplined to avoid getting burned on big plays, but they’ll need to take risks and get pressure on Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord to disrupt his timing with Harrison. Even though Harrison is often double-teamed, he still manages to find ways to make big plays, so Notre Dame must have a plan for keeping him under wraps.

4. J.T. Tuimoloau – Defensive End, Ohio State

Ohio State’s defense is anchored by a fearsome pass rusher in J.T. Tuimoloau. The sophomore defensive end has been a game-wrecker all season, racking up sacks, tackles for loss, and disrupting opposing quarterbacks. His explosive first step and ability to dominate in the trenches make him one of the most dangerous defensive players in college football.

Why Tuimoloau is Key:
For Ohio State to win, Tuimoloau will need to get to Sam Hartman early and often. Hartman is most effective when he has time to read the defense and make decisions, so disrupting his rhythm is essential for the Buckeyes. Tuimoloau’s ability to beat offensive linemen off the edge and collapse the pocket will force Hartman into uncomfortable situations, potentially leading to mistakes. Tuimoloau can also be effective against the run, making it difficult for Notre Dame to establish any kind of ground game with Audric Estime.

What to Expect:
Expect Tuimoloau to line up in a variety of positions along the defensive line. He’ll likely be placed in situations where he can exploit mismatches with Notre Dame’s offensive tackles. Tuimoloau’s quickness and ability to disengage from blockers make him a constant threat. If he can get pressure on Hartman and disrupt the timing of the offense, Ohio State’s defense could create turnovers and set up their offense with excellent field position.