Predictions and odds for the 2025 National Championship game: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame College Football Playoff selections
Predictions and Odds for the 2025 National Championship Game: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame College Football Playoff Selections
As the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship approaches, college football fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating one of the most highly anticipated matchups in recent memory: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame. Both of these iconic programs have been dominant throughout the season and will square off for the ultimate prize in college football. With such a high-profile matchup, predictions and odds are bound to be a major point of discussion, as both teams have strong histories, exceptional talent, and a burning desire to claim the national championship.
Let’s break down the predictions, odds, and what makes this showdown between the Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish so exciting. This will include an analysis of key players, team strengths and weaknesses, and the betting odds that reflect the national championship’s dynamic nature.
Ohio State’s Road to the National Championship Game
Ohio State has been a powerhouse throughout the 2025 season. The Buckeyes’ offensive prowess, combined with their defensive resilience, has propelled them to the top of the College Football Playoff rankings. Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has consistently been among the nation’s elite programs, and this season has been no different.
The Buckeyes’ offense is led by one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football, Kyle McCord, who has matured into a consistent playmaker throughout the season. McCord’s ability to manage the offense, read defenses, and make pinpoint throws has been instrumental in Ohio State’s success. Paired with Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the top wide receivers in the nation, McCord has plenty of weapons to move the ball effectively. Harrison’s size, speed, and ability to make acrobatic catches give Ohio State a lethal weapon on the outside.
While the offense is certainly explosive, Ohio State’s defense has been just as impressive. The Buckeyes boast a defensive line that is one of the best in college football, led by Will Howard, a pass-rushing specialist who has wreaked havoc all season. Howard’s ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt the pocket has been a key to Ohio State’s defensive success. Additionally, Ohio State’s secondary is solid, with players like Denzel Burke providing shutdown coverage on the back end. This balance between offense and defense makes Ohio State a complete team with few weaknesses.
In their path to the national championship, Ohio State had to overcome stiff competition in the Big Ten, including an impressive victory over Michigan in the Big Ten Championship Game. That win was pivotal in solidifying their spot in the College Football Playoff and sent a message to the rest of the college football world that the Buckeyes are a team to be reckoned with.
Notre Dame’s Road to the National Championship Game
Notre Dame, under head coach Marcus Freeman, has been one of the most exciting teams in college football this season. The Fighting Irish, who have had a resurgence under Freeman’s leadership, have been dominant on both sides of the ball. Their balanced approach, strong offensive line, and stifling defense have been key factors in their successful 2025 campaign.
The centerpiece of the Notre Dame offense is Sam Hartman, the graduate transfer quarterback from Wake Forest. Hartman has brought leadership, poise, and experience to the Fighting Irish, making him one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the country. His ability to read defenses and deliver accurate throws down the field has been essential to Notre Dame’s offensive success. Hartman’s connection with his top targets, Tobias Merriweather and Jaden Greathouse, has been crucial for the Irish in big games.
Notre Dame’s offense is also bolstered by a powerful running game. Audric Estime, the team’s star running back, has been a workhorse all season. His physical running style and ability to break tackles make him a dangerous weapon in both short-yardage situations and long runs. Behind a solid offensive line, Estime has been able to churn out tough yards and control the tempo of games.
On the defensive side of the ball, Notre Dame has been equally formidable. The Fighting Irish have a stout defensive line and a talented linebacker corps that can shut down the opposition’s running game. JD Bertrand, a standout linebacker, has been key to the defense’s success, while the secondary, led by Benjamin Morrison, has made timely interceptions and deflections.
Notre Dame’s season has included dominant wins over teams like USC and Clemson, as well as an undefeated regular season that earned them a well-deserved spot in the College Football Playoff. Their consistent play on both sides of the ball has earned them respect and made them a formidable opponent in the national championship game.
Key Matchups to Watch: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
As we look ahead to the 2025 CFP National Championship, there are several key matchups that will dictate the outcome of this thrilling contest. Let’s examine some of the most important ones:
- Ohio State’s Pass Rush vs. Notre Dame’s Offensive Line
Ohio State’s pass rush, led by Will Howard and a deep defensive line, will be a major factor in the national championship game. The Buckeyes have been able to disrupt quarterbacks all season, and against a quarterback like Sam Hartman, applying pressure will be essential. However, Notre Dame’s offensive line is one of the best in the country. Players like Joe Alt at left tackle and Jarrett Patterson at center will need to step up and protect Hartman. If Ohio State can’t generate pressure, Hartman will have the time to dissect the defense and deliver accurate throws.
- Ohio State’s Passing Attack vs. Notre Dame’s Secondary
Ohio State’s passing game, led by Kyle McCord and Marvin Harrison Jr., is one of the most dynamic in the country. Harrison’s ability to stretch the field and make spectacular catches gives the Buckeyes an advantage in the air. However, Notre Dame’s secondary, featuring standout cornerback Benjamin Morrison, has been solid all season. If Morrison and the rest of the Notre Dame secondary can limit Harrison’s impact and force McCord into difficult throws, it could be a game-changer.
- Notre Dame’s Running Game vs. Ohio State’s Front Seven
Notre Dame’s power running game, led by Audric Estime, will be tested against Ohio State’s defense. The Buckeyes have a talented front seven, but Estime’s ability to grind out yards will be key for the Fighting Irish. If Notre Dame can establish the run, it will open up opportunities for play-action passes and keep Ohio State’s defense on its heels. However, if Ohio State can stop the run and force Notre Dame into passing situations, it will be tough for the Irish to keep up with the Buckeyes.
- Turnovers and Big Plays
Both teams have shown the ability to make explosive plays throughout the season, whether through big passing touchdowns or long runs. However, turnovers will likely play a crucial role in determining the winner. Ohio State’s defense, with its ability to create pressure and force turnovers, will look to take advantage of any mistakes Hartman makes. On the flip side, Notre Dame will look to limit turnovers and avoid giving Ohio State short fields.
Predictions: What to Expect from the 2025 CFP National Championship
Given the talent and strengths of both teams, this national championship game is shaping up to be a classic. Both Ohio State and Notre Dame have the ability to control the game on both sides of the ball, and their strengths will test each other in fascinating ways.
Offensive Predictions:
- Ohio State’s offense will likely be the more explosive of the two. With the combination of McCord’s strong arm, Harrison’s elite skills, and a solid running game, the Buckeyes will be able to move the ball effectively. However, Notre Dame’s defense will not go down easily, and they will make McCord work for every yard.
- Notre Dame’s offense, led by Hartman and Estime, will look to control the clock and wear down Ohio State’s defense. The Irish will aim to establish the run early and make efficient passes in the short and intermediate ranges. If they can get the ball into the hands of their playmakers and stay balanced, they’ll be able to put points on the board.
Defensive Predictions:
- Ohio State’s pass rush will be relentless, and Will Howard’s ability to get to Hartman could be the difference-maker. The Buckeyes’ defense has the talent to stifle the Irish’s offensive rhythm if they can consistently apply pressure.
- Notre Dame’s secondary will need to step up against Ohio State’s passing attack. If Morrison and his teammates can limit big plays from McCord to Harrison, the Irish will have a good chance to keep the game close.
Betting Odds and Analysis
As of now, Ohio State enters the national championship game as the favorite. The Buckeyes are generally regarded as one of the most well-rounded teams in the country, and their offensive explosiveness combined with a stingy defense gives them the edge. The odds are currently set at Ohio State -4.5 with an over/under of 56.5 points.
While Ohio State is the favorite, Notre Dame is a well-coached team with the experience and talent to pull off an upset. The Fighting Irish’s ability to control the clock with their running game and keep Ohio State’s offense off the field will be critical. For bettors looking at the underdog, Notre Dame’s defense and Hartman’s leadership provide a compelling case for a closer-than-expected game.
