Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Predictions, Picks, and Odds: Will the Buckeyes win?

The Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish have long been two of the most storied programs in college football. With a combined history of national championships, iconic coaches, and legendary players, the rivalry between these two traditional powerhouses is always one to watch. As they square off in what promises to be a thrilling matchup, fans, analysts, and betting enthusiasts are eagerly making their predictions, picking their favorites, and assessing the odds. The big question is: Will the Buckeyes win?

In this article, we’ll break down the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame game, analyzing the teams’ strengths and weaknesses, the key players to watch, and the factors that will determine the outcome. We’ll also dive into the betting odds and predictions, offering insights into how this matchup could unfold and who has the edge going into the game.

Team Overview: Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State has consistently been one of the most dominant programs in college football. With a long history of success in the Big Ten Conference and on the national stage, the Buckeyes are known for their explosive offense, hard-hitting defense, and their ability to reload talent year after year. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has maintained its status as one of the elite programs in the country, and the 2025 season is expected to be no different.

Offense: High-Octane and Dangerous

Ohio State’s offense has been one of the most potent in college football in recent years, and this season is shaping up to be no different. The Buckeyes have consistently produced high-powered offenses, largely thanks to their dynamic quarterbacks, playmaking wide receivers, and a strong offensive line.

At quarterback, Ohio State has a potential Heisman contender in Kyle McCord or Devin Brown, both of whom bring a combination of arm strength, mobility, and poise under pressure. The quarterback play has been a defining characteristic of the team’s success in recent years, and whichever player wins the starting role will need to rise to the occasion in this high-profile matchup.

The Buckeyes’ receiving corps is always one of the best in the nation, and 2025 will likely be no different. Players like Marvin Harrison Jr. (arguably the best wide receiver in college football) provide McCord or Brown with a reliable go-to target. Harrison’s size, speed, and hands make him a game-changer who can take over a game at any moment. Along with him, players like Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming provide additional weapons in the passing game, ensuring that Ohio State’s aerial attack will be a major threat.

In the running game, the Buckeyes have produced elite backs year after year, and this season’s group is expected to be no different. Running backs like Miyan Williams and Trevon Henderson are capable of breaking big runs and wearing down opposing defenses with their speed and physicality. Ohio State’s offensive line, a constant in their success, is likely to be formidable once again, helping to create running lanes and provide protection for the quarterback.

Defense: Speed, Power, and Versatility

Ohio State’s defense has often been overshadowed by their high-flying offense, but in recent seasons, the Buckeyes have turned into one of the most aggressive and efficient defensive units in the country. The team’s defensive line is among the best in college football, with players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer providing constant pressure on the quarterback. This pass rush is key to disrupting opposing offenses and creating turnovers.

The linebacker corps is also a strength, with versatile players who can play sideline-to-sideline and excel in both pass coverage and run defense. Players like C.J. Hicks and Steel Chambers will play pivotal roles in Ohio State’s defensive schemes.

In the secondary, Ohio State has a group of ball-hawking defensive backs who are capable of making big plays. Cornerbacks like Denzel Burke and Jahyae Bowen are athletic and can match up well with Notre Dame’s talented receivers, making it crucial for Ohio State to win in the trenches and force the Irish into passing situations.

Team Overview: Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Notre Dame, like Ohio State, is a blue-blood program with a rich history and a national following. The Fighting Irish have produced their fair share of Heisman Trophy winners, national championships, and legendary players, and they are always a force to be reckoned with. Under head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame is working to maintain its spot as one of the premier programs in college football, and 2025 promises to be another exciting season for the Irish.

Offense: Physical and Balanced

Notre Dame’s offense is built around physicality, versatility, and balance. Unlike Ohio State’s high-flying approach, the Fighting Irish emphasize a more balanced attack, with a strong running game and an efficient passing game. This mix of styles can often catch opposing defenses off guard, making Notre Dame a tough matchup.

At quarterback, Sam Hartman is one of the most experienced and respected signal-callers in the nation. The former Wake Forest standout transferred to Notre Dame, bringing his leadership and ability to make clutch throws in big moments. Hartman’s experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable in a game against a formidable opponent like Ohio State. He has the arm strength and accuracy to challenge the Buckeyes’ secondary, but his ability to stay calm under pressure will be crucial in keeping the offense on track.

The Irish’s running game is one of the strongest aspects of their offense, with a stable of talented running backs like Audric Estime and Logan Diggs. Both backs are capable of running between the tackles, breaking tackles, and picking up tough yards, while also providing a threat in the passing game. Notre Dame’s offensive line is known for being one of the best in the country, and their ability to dominate the line of scrimmage will be key to controlling the tempo of the game.

In the passing game, Notre Dame has a solid group of wide receivers and tight ends who can make plays. Jaden Greathouse and Tobias Merriweather are rising stars in the Irish receiving corps, and tight ends like Michael Mayer provide a reliable option in the middle of the field. This balanced approach gives Notre Dame the ability to attack defenses in a variety of ways, keeping Ohio State’s defense guessing.

Defense: Physical and Tough

Notre Dame’s defense is known for being tough, physical, and disciplined. Under Freeman, the Irish have focused on creating a balanced defensive unit that can defend the run and the pass with equal proficiency. The defensive line will be a key factor in stopping Ohio State’s potent offense, and players like Isaiah Foskey and Riley Mills are expected to be disruptors in the trenches.

In the linebacker corps, Notre Dame has a wealth of talent, including standout players like Jack Kiser and JD Bertrand. These players are known for their ability to read offenses, make tackles in space, and be key components in Notre Dame’s blitz packages.

In the secondary, Notre Dame has a talented group of defensive backs led by Benjamin Morrison and DJ Brown. These players will have their hands full trying to contain Ohio State’s explosive passing attack, but if they can match up well against the Buckeyes’ receivers, it could go a long way toward limiting Ohio State’s offensive success.

Prediction and Picks: Who Will Win?

As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, this game promises to be a thrilling and tightly contested matchup. Both teams have their strengths, and both will be looking to impose their will on the other. However, there are several key factors that could ultimately determine the outcome.

Ohio State’s Strengths:

• Elite Offense: Ohio State’s high-powered offense, led by one of the best wide receivers in the country, Marvin Harrison Jr., and a strong running game, will be a major challenge for Notre Dame’s defense.
• Quarterback Play: Ohio State’s quarterback situation is one of the most crucial storylines heading into the game. If McCord or Brown can play efficiently and avoid turnovers, the Buckeyes will be in a strong position to win.
• Defensive Playmakers: With players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Denzel Burke, Ohio State’s defense has the ability to stop Notre Dame’s offense. The pass rush will be key in forcing Hartman into uncomfortable situations.

Notre Dame’s Strengths:

• Balanced Attack: Notre Dame’s ability to run the ball and control the clock with Estime and Diggs will be key to keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field.
• Sam Hartman’s Experience: The veteran quarterback has proven he can perform under pressure, and his ability to make plays against a tough Ohio State defense will be crucial.
• Tough, Physical Defense: Notre Dame’s defense has the toughness to withstand Ohio State’s offensive onslaught. If they can limit big plays and get pressure on the quarterback, they’ll have a chance to keep the game close.

Betting Odds and Final Thoughts:

As of now, Ohio State enters the game as the favorite, with most sportsbooks placing the Buckeyes as 7-10 point favorites. Given their explosive offense, depth of talent, and home-field advantage, Ohio State has the edge heading into this game. However, Notre Dame’s balance, physicality, and experienced quarterback make them a formidable opponent, and the Irish have the potential to pull off an upset if they can control the game on the ground and avoid turnovers.

In the end, while Notre Dame will give Ohio State a tough fight, the Buckeyes’ talent and offensive firepower should prove to be too much. Ohio State is likely to win in a close, high-scoring affair, but this game will be one to remember for college football fans.

Prediction: Ohio State 34, Notre Dame 27