Which is deeper, Notre Dame or Ohio State? Putting together the best lineup for the CFP national title

Which Team is Deeper: Notre Dame or Ohio State? Putting Together the Best Lineup for the CFP National Title

As the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship approaches, the question of depth between Notre Dame and Ohio State remains a critical factor in determining who will emerge victorious. Both teams have rich football traditions and rosters loaded with talent, but in such a high-stakes game, depth can be the deciding factor. Depth doesn’t just refer to the talent at the top but also to how well teams can withstand injuries, execute in key moments, and rotate players in critical areas of the game.

In this analysis, we will break down the depth of each team by evaluating their key positions, including quarterback, running back, wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, linebackers, and secondary. Ultimately, we will assess which team has the edge in each of these areas and construct an ideal lineup for each squad that could represent their best shot at the national title.

Quarterback: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Sam Hartman: Notre Dame’s Sam Hartman, a graduate transfer from Wake Forest, has proven himself to be a seasoned and capable leader for the Fighting Irish this season. With over 50 career starts and a high football IQ, Hartman has experience playing in big games. His ability to make all the throws, manage the game efficiently, and step up when necessary is evident. However, his success depends heavily on the protection of his offensive line and his ability to avoid making mistakes against a talented defense like Ohio State’s.

Ohio State – Kyle McCord: Ohio State’s starting quarterback, Kyle McCord, has been solid in his first season as the full-time starter, but he still lacks the same level of experience that Hartman possesses. McCord has a strong arm and the ability to push the ball down the field, but he can sometimes struggle with consistency in high-pressure situations. His growth throughout the season has been promising, and his playmaking ability should not be underestimated. He also benefits from being surrounded by an elite receiving corps, including Marvin Harrison Jr., which eases his transition to the starting role.

Edge: Notre Dame. While McCord has the tools to become a star, Hartman’s experience in big games and ability to handle adversity gives Notre Dame the edge at quarterback. Hartman’s leadership and command of the offense make him a more reliable option in this high-pressure setting.

Running Back: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Audric Estime: Audric Estime is the bell cow for Notre Dame’s offense. The 6’1″, 225-pound running back has been a force all season, able to bulldoze through defenders, break tackles, and churn out crucial yards in both short and long-yardage situations. His vision and downhill running style allow him to gain significant yardage after contact, making him a threat in the red zone and a key piece of the Irish’s offensive attack. Estime is also capable of catching passes out of the backfield, adding another dimension to the offense.

Ohio State – Miyan Williams / TreVeyon Henderson: Ohio State boasts a potent one-two punch at running back with Miyan Williams and TreVeyon Henderson. Williams brings power and toughness, while Henderson’s burst and breakaway speed make him a dynamic playmaker. Together, they offer Ohio State balance in the ground game, allowing the Buckeyes to control the tempo when necessary. Henderson’s explosive ability to hit home runs on the ground adds a dangerous element to their offense. Both running backs can catch passes and provide value as dual-threats.

Edge: Notre Dame. While Ohio State has a strong running back duo, Estime’s size, strength, and consistency in moving the chains give Notre Dame the edge in the running back department. He’s a more physical presence in the backfield, and his ability to wear down defenses will be key in a national title game.

Wide Receiver: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Jaden Greathouse / Tobias Merriweather: Notre Dame’s receiving corps has developed steadily over the season, with Jaden Greathouse and Tobias Merriweather emerging as top targets for Hartman. Greathouse, a reliable possession receiver, has excellent hands and is a consistent target on third downs, while Merriweather is a deep threat who can stretch defenses vertically. However, the Irish’s receiving corps lacks the same level of star power as Ohio State’s and is somewhat inconsistent in big games.

Ohio State – Marvin Harrison Jr. / Emeka Egbuka / Julian Fleming: Ohio State’s wide receiver group is one of the deepest in the country, headlined by Marvin Harrison Jr., arguably the top wide receiver in college football. Harrison’s combination of size, speed, and hands makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his ability to make game-changing plays could be the difference in this game. Alongside Harrison, Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming provide exceptional depth. Egbuka has elite speed and can make plays both on short routes and deep balls, while Fleming is a strong, physical receiver who can create mismatches.

Edge: Ohio State. Ohio State’s receiving corps is one of the deepest and most talented in the nation. Marvin Harrison Jr. alone gives the Buckeyes a massive advantage, and the depth they have with Egbuka and Fleming makes them an even more potent force. Notre Dame’s wide receivers are solid but do not match up to Ohio State’s level of star power.

Offensive Line: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Offensive Line: Notre Dame is known for its physical offensive line, and this year’s unit continues that tradition. The Irish’s offensive line is built to dominate in the trenches, especially in the run game. Anchored by standout players like Joe Alt (offensive tackle) and Jarrett Patterson (center), Notre Dame’s offensive line excels at both run blocking and pass protection. Their ability to create running lanes for Estime and give Hartman time to make plays will be crucial against Ohio State’s fast and aggressive defensive line.

Ohio State – Offensive Line: Ohio State’s offensive line, while talented, has had moments of inconsistency throughout the season. The Buckeyes have solid players like Paris Johnson Jr. at tackle, but they’ve struggled at times to sustain drives and protect McCord when facing top-tier defenses. Ohio State’s offensive line can perform well in pass protection, but it has not been as dominant in the run game as Notre Dame’s.

Edge: Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s offensive line is the more established and physically imposing unit. While Ohio State has good players along its line, Notre Dame’s consistent dominance in the trenches gives the Irish the edge here. This will be key in establishing the run game and protecting Hartman.

Defensive Line: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Defensive Line: Notre Dame’s defensive line is anchored by standout players like Rylie Mills and Howard Cross, who have been exceptional against both the run and pass this season. The Irish have a versatile front four that can apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks while also clogging running lanes. However, while Notre Dame’s defensive line is strong, it is not as consistently dominant as Ohio State’s in terms of pass-rushing ability.

Ohio State – Defensive Line: Ohio State’s defensive line is one of the most feared in the country, featuring players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. Tuimoloau, in particular, is a disruptive force who can change the game with his ability to get to the quarterback. The Buckeyes’ line has the edge when it comes to generating pressure on the quarterback, which will be crucial in limiting Hartman’s time to throw. Ohio State’s front four is also capable of shutting down the run, making it difficult for opponents to find any offensive rhythm.

Edge: Ohio State. Ohio State’s defensive line is one of the deepest and most dynamic in college football, with multiple players who can disrupt the offense at any moment. Tuimoloau’s ability to dominate up front gives the Buckeyes a distinct advantage in this matchup.

Linebackers: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Linebackers: Notre Dame’s linebacking corps is anchored by standout players like JD Bertrand and Jack Kiser. The Irish linebackers are physical, versatile, and well-coached, with the ability to defend against both the run and the pass. They excel in coverage and are quick to react in zone defenses. The linebackers’ ability to stay disciplined in their assignments and keep track of Ohio State’s explosive offense will be crucial to Notre Dame’s success.

Ohio State – Linebackers: Ohio State’s linebacking group is strong, led by Tommy Eichenberg and Steele Chambers. The Buckeyes have a good mix of speed and power at the position, which allows them to cover a lot of ground in both the run and pass games. Eichenberg, in particular, is one of the top linebackers in the country and will play a key role in neutralizing Notre Dame’s running game.

Edge: Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s linebackers are a bit more well-rounded, with strong coverage abilities and a knack for making key plays in the run game. While Ohio State’s linebackers are talented, Notre Dame’s versatility gives them the edge in this matchup.

Secondary: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame – Secondary: Notre Dame’s secondary is anchored by cornerback Cam Hart and safety Xavier Watts, who have both had stellar seasons. The Irish defense is known for being opportunistic, with a knack for forcing turnovers. The secondary will need to be disciplined in coverage and avoid giving up big plays to Ohio State’s high-powered passing attack.

Ohio State – Secondary: Ohio State’s secondary is solid, with standout players like Denzel Burke and Lathan Ransom, but it has been susceptible to big plays at times. The Buckeyes’ secondary can be beat, especially by elite receivers like Notre Dame’s Tobias Merriweather and Jaden Greathouse. However, they have a tendency to step up in big moments, making them a formidable unit.

Edge: Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s secondary has been more consistent this season and is better equipped to handle the deep passing game of Ohio State. While Ohio State’s secondary is talented, it has shown vulnerability against top receivers.