Ohio State Football: Analysis and Forecast Against Notre Dame in the National Championship

The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship is one of the most anticipated games in all of sports, bringing together the best teams in college football for a battle that will determine the national champion. As the 2025 season progresses, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Both teams have storied traditions, with impressive seasons leading them to this point. The 2025 CFP National Championship promises to be a clash of titans, showcasing two of the most successful programs in the history of college football.

This article provides a detailed analysis of the Ohio State football team, their strengths, and weaknesses, and how they stack up against Notre Dame in the biggest game of the season. It will also forecast what fans can expect from this highly anticipated matchup, from key players to strategies and potential outcomes.

Ohio State Football: The Road to the National Championship

Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has been a dominant force in college football for several years. As the Buckeyes approach the 2025 CFP National Championship, they are armed with a blend of experienced veterans, young stars, and a balanced offensive and defensive approach. Ohio State enters the championship game as one of the most complete teams in the country, boasting a potent offense, a stifling defense, and a well-rounded special teams unit.

Key Players for Ohio State:

• Quarterback – Kyle McCord: The 2025 season has been an impressive one for Kyle McCord, the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback. McCord has shown remarkable growth and poise in his second season as the starter. He has an excellent arm, the ability to make quick decisions, and the maturity to handle big-game situations. McCord’s performance will be crucial against Notre Dame’s defense. He must be precise with his throws and avoid turnovers to keep the offense on track.
• Running Back – TreVeyon Henderson: Ohio State’s running game is led by TreVeyon Henderson, who has been a standout player throughout the season. Henderson is known for his speed, vision, and ability to break tackles. He has the potential to dominate on the ground, especially in the high-pressure environment of the National Championship. The Buckeyes will likely rely on him to balance the offense and keep Notre Dame’s defense honest.
• Wide Receiver – Marvin Harrison Jr.: Arguably the best wide receiver in college football, Marvin Harrison Jr. has been a game-changer for Ohio State. With his elite route running, exceptional hands, and ability to create separation, Harrison is a matchup nightmare for any defense. Against Notre Dame, he will be a focal point of the offense, and McCord will look to him early and often.
• Defensive Line – J.T. Tuimoloau: Ohio State’s defense has been one of the best in the nation, and much of that success is due to the play of their defensive line. J.T. Tuimoloau, a disruptive force on the edge, will be tasked with putting pressure on Notre Dame’s quarterback and stifling their running game. Tuimoloau has the strength and agility to dominate at the line of scrimmage and could be a game-wrecker against the Irish.
• Cornerback – Denzel Burke: As one of the top cornerbacks in the country, Denzel Burke will play a pivotal role in shutting down Notre Dame’s wide receivers. Burke has the speed and technique to match up with any receiver, and his ability to win one-on-one battles will be key in limiting big plays from the Irish offense.

Ohio State’s Strengths:

• Offensive Firepower: Ohio State boasts one of the most explosive offenses in the country, featuring a quarterback with NFL potential, a dynamic running back, and one of the most talented receiving corps in college football. The Buckeyes can attack from all angles, whether it’s McCord airing it out to Harrison Jr. or Henderson pounding the ball on the ground. This offensive versatility makes them a tough team to defend.
• Defensive Dominance: Ohio State’s defense has been a standout unit in 2025. With a pass rush that can generate pressure from multiple angles, a secondary that can lock down receivers, and linebackers who are strong against the run, the Buckeyes are well-equipped to take on any offense. Their ability to shut down opposing offenses and force turnovers will be a key factor in the championship game.
• Depth and Balance: One of Ohio State’s greatest strengths is the depth across all positions. From the offensive line to the secondary, the Buckeyes have quality players at every spot, allowing them to rotate and keep players fresh throughout the game. This depth, combined with a balanced offensive and defensive approach, makes Ohio State one of the toughest teams to beat.

Notre Dame Football: The Road to the National Championship

Notre Dame, under head coach Marcus Freeman, has made a strong statement in the 2025 season. The Fighting Irish are no strangers to the College Football Playoff, and their path to the National Championship has been built on a foundation of strong defense, efficient offense, and a physical, disciplined style of play. Notre Dame’s road to the 2025 title game has been marked by impressive victories over top-ranked teams, including a dramatic win in their semifinal matchup.

Key Players for Notre Dame:

• Quarterback – Sam Hartman: The veteran quarterback Sam Hartman has been a key player for Notre Dame this season. Hartman, who transferred to Notre Dame from Wake Forest, brings years of experience to the table. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs will be critical against Ohio State’s defense. Hartman will need to be at his best in this high-pressure game, reading defenses quickly and delivering accurate throws under duress.
• Running Back – Audric Estime: Notre Dame’s running game is led by Audric Estime, a powerful and bruising back who has the ability to wear down defenses. Estime excels in short-yardage situations and has the ability to break off long runs. Against a defense like Ohio State’s, Estime will be tasked with establishing the ground game early and keeping the Buckeyes’ defense on its heels.
• Wide Receiver – Tobias Merriweather: Tobias Merriweather is Notre Dame’s top receiving threat and a player who can make big plays when called upon. He’s fast, has strong hands, and is a deep-ball threat that can stretch the defense. Ohio State’s secondary will need to stay disciplined to prevent Merriweather from making game-changing catches.
• Defensive Line – Isaiah Foskey: One of Notre Dame’s most impactful defenders, Isaiah Foskey, is a dominant force on the defensive line. Foskey has the ability to disrupt the opposing offense with his pass-rushing prowess and his ability to stop the run. Ohio State’s offensive line will need to account for him at all times, as he could be the difference-maker in the game.
• Linebacker – JD Bertrand: JD Bertrand is a standout linebacker for Notre Dame, known for his ability to read offenses and make tackles in the open field. He will be a key player in stopping Ohio State’s running game and covering receivers out of the backfield. Bertrand’s versatility will be crucial in slowing down the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.

Notre Dame’s Strengths:

• Physical Defense: Notre Dame’s defense is known for its toughness and ability to stop the run. The Fighting Irish are well-coached and disciplined, often out-physicaling their opponents. This defense will need to be on top of its game in the championship, especially when facing Ohio State’s explosive offense.
• Offensive Efficiency: While not as flashy as Ohio State’s offense, Notre Dame’s offense is highly efficient. Hartman’s experience, combined with Estime’s powerful running, gives Notre Dame the ability to control the clock and keep Ohio State’s offense off the field. If Notre Dame can establish a strong running game and maintain possession, it could wear down the Buckeyes’ defense.
• Special Teams Excellence: Notre Dame has one of the best special teams units in the country, which could be an X-factor in the game. Whether it’s returning kicks or punting, Notre Dame’s ability to flip the field position and create momentum swings could be critical in a tightly contested championship matchup.

The Matchup: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame

Offensive Battle

Ohio State’s offense, led by McCord, Harrison Jr., and Henderson, will be a challenge for Notre Dame’s defense. The Buckeyes have the ability to score quickly and in a variety of ways, making them one of the most dangerous offenses in the country. McCord’s arm strength and accuracy will put pressure on Notre Dame’s secondary, especially with a deep threat like Harrison Jr. downfield. However, Notre Dame’s defense is built to contain fast-paced offenses. Their defensive line, led by Foskey, will be key in trying to disrupt McCord’s rhythm and get pressure on the quarterback.

On the flip side, Notre Dame’s offense, led by Hartman and Estime, will face a difficult task against Ohio State’s defense. The Buckeyes have been excellent at stopping the run, and they’ll need to focus on keeping Estime from breaking free for big gains. Hartman’s ability to make plays in the air will also be crucial, as the Irish will need to find ways to stretch the field and create big plays to keep the defense on its toes.

Defensive Showdown

Both teams have elite defenses, and the ability of each defense to stop the other’s offense will likely determine the outcome of the game. Ohio State’s defense, anchored by Tuimoloau and Burke, will need to stifle Estime on the ground while keeping an eye on Hartman’s passing game. Conversely, Notre Dame will have to contain McCord’s passing attack, especially targeting Harrison Jr., while also making sure to not overlook Henderson in the running game.

Prediction

This National Championship will be a hard-fought battle between two elite teams. Ohio State’s offensive firepower and defensive depth will give them an edge, but Notre Dame’s physicality and efficiency should keep the game close. Ultimately, Ohio State’s dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball—along with McCord’s ability to lead the offense in big moments—will carry them to a narrow victory.