Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed confidence in the Ohio State Buckeyes defeating Notre Dame, making a friendly wager with Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb ahead of their teams’ upcoming matchup.

In college football, the stakes are high and the rivalries are intense, but sometimes, the intensity spills over into friendly wagers and public bets between fans and even politicians. One such moment of camaraderie and competition recently unfolded between Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, as the two state leaders made a wager ahead of a highly anticipated college football matchup between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

The bet wasn’t just a typical rivalry wager. It was one that brought a bit of lighthearted fun to the table, showcasing how sports can unite people across state lines, even among political figures. As the two governors placed their bets, the eyes of the college football world couldn’t help but focus on the two programs that have long histories and passionate fan bases. The bet was a reflection of the rivalry that stretches beyond the gridiron and into the hearts of the states that support these teams.

Here’s a closer look at the wager between Governor Mike DeWine and Governor Eric Holcomb, the underlying significance of this friendly bet, and what it represents in the world of college football.

The Build-Up to the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Showdown

When the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish meet on the football field, it’s never just another game. These two programs are powerhouses in college football, with passionate fan bases and rich histories that make every matchup exciting. Whether it’s the tradition of Ohio State’s dominance in the Big Ten or Notre Dame’s storied legacy as an independent powerhouse, the stage is always set for a thrilling game.

For Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, the stakes were even higher. The friendly wager was placed ahead of one such highly anticipated game between these two college football giants, and the game became more than just a battle of teams—it turned into a friendly bet between the two state leaders.

The wager wasn’t just about the football game itself, but about the pride of their respective states. Ohioans pride themselves on supporting the Buckeyes, while Hoosiers have long been passionate about their loyalty to Notre Dame. The game symbolized more than just a victory for either team—it was a symbolic win for one state over the other.

The Wager: A Friendly Bet with High Stakes

Governor Mike DeWine, known for his love of Ohio State football, has long been a vocal supporter of the Buckeyes. His confidence in the Buckeyes was evident in the wager he proposed to Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. DeWine made it clear that he believed Ohio State would emerge victorious against Notre Dame, a team that had made a strong case as one of the top teams in college football.

The wager was lighthearted but with an unmistakable sense of state pride behind it. If the Buckeyes were to defeat the Fighting Irish, Governor DeWine had one request for Governor Holcomb: a display of Ohio State pride in the form of a public show of support. On the flip side, if Notre Dame came out on top, Governor DeWine would return the favor and support the Fighting Irish in a similarly public manner.

Governor Holcomb, ever the good sport and staunch supporter of Notre Dame, readily accepted the wager. He, too, was confident in his team’s ability to defeat the Buckeyes, knowing full well the history of the Fighting Irish and their competitive nature. For him, the bet was an opportunity to show his loyalty to Notre Dame and to demonstrate his willingness to engage in a fun, competitive bet with a fellow governor.

While the stakes were friendly, the pride of their states was certainly on the line, making the wager a bit more than just a casual bet. It was a chance for both governors to show their allegiance to their respective teams and to have some fun along the way, regardless of the outcome.

The Significance of the Wager: A Symbol of Friendly Rivalry

Beyond the individual stakes of the bet, the wager between Governor DeWine and Governor Holcomb represents something larger: a celebration of sportsmanship and friendly rivalry. College football, particularly at the level played by Ohio State and Notre Dame, is more than just a game—it’s a cultural touchstone that unites fans from all walks of life.

In many ways, sports have the power to transcend politics, personal beliefs, and regional differences, allowing fans and public figures to connect through their shared love of the game. The wager between these two governors reflects how sports can foster a sense of unity even in the midst of rivalry.

For DeWine and Holcomb, the bet provided a way for them to engage with their constituents and the larger community in a fun and public way. It was a demonstration of how public figures can use lighthearted competition to engage with their citizens and to bring a sense of joy and excitement to the political landscape. For a brief moment, the political differences between the states of Ohio and Indiana were set aside, and the focus shifted to the game at hand—the ultimate showdown between two beloved college football teams.

The Ohio State Buckeyes: A Team to Watch

The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been a powerhouse in college football, and in 2025, the team was looking to continue its dominant tradition. With head coach Ryan Day at the helm, the Buckeyes are known for their high-powered offense, elite-level recruits, and a defense that is among the best in the country. Ohio State has consistently been in the College Football Playoff conversation and continues to be one of the top teams in the Big Ten.

Ohio State’s success has been fueled by standout players, from their quarterbacks to their defensive stars, and the team’s success on the field has only amplified the loyalty of their fans. Governor DeWine’s confidence in the Buckeyes is no surprise, as the team’s national championship aspirations continue to drive excitement in the state of Ohio.

As Ohio State heads into the 2025 season, their game against Notre Dame was poised to be a key matchup in determining whether they could make a push for a spot in the College Football Playoff. With the strength of their roster and their history of success, the Buckeyes remain one of the most formidable teams in college football, and their victory over Notre Dame could have significant implications for their postseason hopes.

Notre Dame: A Legacy of Excellence

Notre Dame, on the other hand, boasts a legacy of excellence in college football. The Fighting Irish have one of the richest histories in the sport, with numerous national championships, Heisman Trophy winners, and All-Americans over the years. Notre Dame’s independent status has often made them an attractive destination for top-tier recruits, and their brand is one of the most recognized in the country.

Under head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame is looking to return to the pinnacle of college football. With a strong roster and an experienced coaching staff, the Fighting Irish were poised to challenge for a spot in the College Football Playoff in 2025. The game against Ohio State would be a major test for Notre Dame’s season, and a victory would bolster their position as one of the top teams in the nation.

Governor Holcomb’s confidence in Notre Dame reflects the pride that Hoosiers have in their beloved Fighting Irish. With a strong fan base that stretches beyond the borders of Indiana, Notre Dame has consistently been a team that rivals the powerhouses of college football. If the Fighting Irish were to win, Holcomb’s public display of victory would be a symbol of Notre Dame’s continued excellence.

The Outcome: A Friendly Conclusion

In the world of college football, there can only be one winner, but the wager between Governors DeWine and Holcomb was about more than just the final score. Whether Ohio State or Notre Dame emerged victorious, the bet helped to reinforce the spirit of friendly competition that defines college football. It was a reminder of the larger cultural impact that sports have on communities, where the rivalry between teams extends to the political and personal level.

Regardless of who won the bet, the camaraderie between DeWine and Holcomb showed that sports can bring people together—even in moments of fierce competition. The wager was a lighthearted reminder of how shared experiences, like rooting for a favorite team, can bridge divides and create lasting memories.