College Football Playoff 2024 projections: How big of a favorite is Ohio State vs. Notre Dame? “The Athletic”
As the 2024 college football season approaches, the conversation surrounding the College Football Playoff (CFP) is already gaining momentum. Fans and analysts alike are looking ahead to potential matchups, with some programs emerging as strong favorites, while others aim to surprise and disrupt the established hierarchy. One of the most intriguing early projections for the CFP comes in the form of a potential matchup between two of college football’s most iconic programs: Ohio State and Notre Dame.
As of now, both teams are expected to be in the mix for the CFP, with Ohio State boasting one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the country, while Notre Dame is coming off an impressive 2023 campaign that included a major victory over Clemson. With both teams poised for success in 2024, many have begun speculating about what would happen if they were to meet in the postseason, and how much of a favorite Ohio State would be in such a scenario.
In this article, we will explore the 2024 College Football Playoff projections, break down the strengths and weaknesses of both Ohio State and Notre Dame, and analyze how big of a favorite Ohio State would be in a potential playoff matchup with the Fighting Irish.
The College Football Playoff: A New Era
Before diving into the specifics of the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame matchup, it’s important to understand the context of the 2024 College Football Playoff. This season marks the final year of the four-team format for the CFP, as the field is set to expand to 12 teams in 2024. The new format will allow for more teams to participate, giving programs outside of the traditional powerhouses a greater chance to make a run at the national championship.
However, the 2024 season still operates under the four-team model, and the top four teams will be selected based on their performance throughout the regular season, conference championships, and overall strength of schedule. As the season progresses, the playoff picture will become clearer, but early projections already indicate that Ohio State, Notre Dame, and several other top programs will be in contention.
Ohio State: A Heavy Favorite
Ohio State enters the 2024 season as one of the favorites to make the College Football Playoff, and for good reason. The Buckeyes have consistently been one of the most dominant programs in college football, regularly competing for national championships under head coach Ryan Day. With a roster filled with elite talent on both sides of the ball, Ohio State is expected to make another strong run toward the postseason in 2024.
Offensive Powerhouse
One of the primary reasons Ohio State is considered a favorite in 2024 is their explosive offense. At the heart of this offense is quarterback Ty Simpson, a highly touted transfer from Alabama who is set to take the reins of the Buckeyes’ high-powered passing attack. Simpson’s dual-threat abilities, combined with his strong arm and athleticism, make him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football. He is surrounded by a wealth of talent at the skill positions, including one of the most feared wide receiver corps in the country.
Ohio State’s receiving group is headlined by Marvin Harrison Jr., a future first-round NFL Draft pick, and Julian Fleming, who is expected to have a breakout year in 2024. The Buckeyes’ receiving corps is deep, with several other playmakers capable of making big plays at any moment. Additionally, Ohio State has one of the best offensive lines in the country, which will help Simpson stay upright and allow the running game to thrive.
Speaking of the running game, Ohio State has a talented backfield led by TreVeyon Henderson, who is a versatile and dynamic playmaker. Henderson’s ability to break tackles and make defenders miss in the open field gives the Buckeyes a well-rounded offense that is capable of scoring quickly and often.
Defensive Dominance
While Ohio State’s offense often steals the spotlight, their defense is just as formidable. The Buckeyes have one of the top defensive units in the nation, with a front seven that can dominate against both the run and the pass. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has brought a new level of aggressiveness to the defense, utilizing a fast-paced, high-pressure scheme that creates havoc for opposing quarterbacks.
Ohio State’s defense is led by standout players such as defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, and cornerback Denzel Burke. These players, along with others on the defensive side of the ball, make Ohio State one of the most complete teams in college football. With a stout defense to complement their potent offense, the Buckeyes are one of the most balanced teams in the country, which makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone in the CFP.
Ohio State’s Path to the Playoff
Ohio State enters the 2024 season as a top contender for the CFP, and their path to the playoff is clear. To reach the postseason, the Buckeyes will need to navigate a challenging Big Ten schedule, which includes games against Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin. Ohio State will also need to win the Big Ten Championship to secure a spot in the playoff, but if they can continue to dominate on both sides of the ball, they should be well-positioned to make the final four.
Notre Dame: A Strong Contender
While Ohio State is widely regarded as a favorite in 2024, Notre Dame is another program that has the potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. The Fighting Irish have been one of the most consistent programs in college football in recent years, and under head coach Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame has taken significant strides toward becoming a true national contender.
Offensive Improvements
Notre Dame’s offense in 2024 is poised to be more dynamic than in previous seasons, thanks in large part to the development of quarterback Sam Hartman. The veteran quarterback, who transferred to Notre Dame after a successful stint at Wake Forest, brings a wealth of experience and a powerful arm to the Fighting Irish offense. Hartman’s ability to make all the necessary throws, coupled with his poise under pressure, gives Notre Dame an immediate upgrade at the quarterback position.
Notre Dame’s offensive line is another key strength. The Fighting Irish are known for producing top-tier offensive linemen, and their front five is once again one of the best in the country. This will allow Notre Dame’s running game to flourish, as they have a talented stable of running backs, led by Audric Estime, who can pound the ball between the tackles and break off big runs when necessary.
In the passing game, Notre Dame has several playmakers, including wide receivers Tobias Merriweather and Jaden Greathouse. These players will need to step up and make plays for Hartman to have the success the Fighting Irish need to compete with the nation’s elite teams.
Defensive Strength
While Notre Dame’s offense is improving, their defense is already one of the best in the country. Under defensive coordinator Al Golden, the Fighting Irish have developed a reputation for being stout against both the run and the pass. Notre Dame’s defense is headlined by linebacker Jack Kiser and defensive end Jordan Botelho, two players who have the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and change the course of a game.
The Fighting Irish also have a solid secondary, led by cornerback Benjamin Morrison, who is one of the top defensive backs in college football. This defense will be key to Notre Dame’s chances of making a deep run in the College Football Playoff, as they will need to slow down high-powered offenses like those of Ohio State, Michigan, and others in the CFP.
Notre Dame’s Path to the Playoff
To make the College Football Playoff in 2024, Notre Dame will need to continue its strong play from recent seasons and avoid costly losses. The Fighting Irish face a difficult schedule, with matchups against Ohio State, USC, and Clemson among the key challenges. Winning these high-profile games, along with maintaining consistency throughout the season, will be crucial for Notre Dame to earn a spot in the final four.
How Big of a Favorite is Ohio State?
When analyzing a potential College Football Playoff matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame, it’s clear that Ohio State would enter the game as a significant favorite. The Buckeyes have one of the most talented and balanced teams in the country, with a dynamic offense and a stifling defense. Notre Dame, while a strong and well-coached team, would likely face an uphill battle against Ohio State’s depth, talent, and firepower.
In terms of betting odds, Ohio State would likely be favored by at least a touchdown, if not more. The Buckeyes’ offense is expected to be one of the most explosive in college football, and their defense is more than capable of containing Notre Dame’s attack. While Notre Dame has the talent to make it competitive, Ohio State’s depth and playmaking ability would likely give them the edge in such a matchup.
