National Championship Win: By defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship.

National Championship Victory: The Ohio State Buckeyes Clinch the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship by Defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish

In what can only be described as one of the most exhilarating college football seasons in recent memory, the Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged victorious in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, clinching the title after a dramatic 34-27 win over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The game, held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, was a back-and-forth spectacle that lived up to the immense hype, delivering everything fans of college football could have asked for: intense drama, high-level play, and unforgettable moments. With the win, Ohio State earned its first national title since 2014, putting an exclamation point on a season that was nothing short of historic.

The Buckeyes, led by head coach Ryan Day, overcame a stubborn and resilient Notre Dame team that had defied expectations all season long to make it to their first national championship game since the 2012 season. Ohio State’s triumph was propelled by standout performances from their star players, but it was their ability to stay composed under pressure and execute in clutch moments that truly made the difference.

This victory also marks a significant achievement for the Ohio State program, cementing its place among the elite teams in college football history. But for Ohio State, the journey to the championship was far from simple, and their path to the title game was filled with obstacles, challenges, and impressive victories. It’s a win that will be remembered not just for the result, but for how Ohio State, as a program, rose to the occasion when the stakes were at their highest.

A Thrilling Build-Up to the National Championship Game

Ohio State and Notre Dame had taken very different paths to the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, but both teams entered the game with confidence, knowing they had earned their spot at the pinnacle of college football. Ohio State’s road was one of dominance, with an undefeated regular season and an impressive showing in the Big Ten Championship, where they trounced their rival Michigan Wolverines. The Buckeyes’ offense, led by standout quarterback Kyle McCord, was an unstoppable force all year long. McCord had developed into one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the nation, and his connection with wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka was nearly impossible for defenses to contain. On the defensive side, Jim Knowles’ defense had been ferocious, with pass-rushers like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer terrorizing quarterbacks and making life difficult for opposing offenses.

Notre Dame, on the other hand, had a slightly more complicated road to the title game. Their season was marked by high points and a few close calls, but they ended up putting together an impressive run to make the College Football Playoff, with a one-loss season that saw them finish with a conference championship in the ACC. Head coach Marcus Freeman had transformed the Fighting Irish into a formidable team, and their well-rounded squad boasted a strong offense led by quarterback Sam Hartman and a defense that was difficult to break down. What set Notre Dame apart in 2025 was their resilience—time and again, the Fighting Irish found ways to win close games, often pulling out victories in the final minutes with clutch plays. Their run to the national title game culminated in an emotional victory over their rivals, the USC Trojans, in the Cotton Bowl, which propelled them into the title game against Ohio State.

First Half: A Tale of Two Offenses

The game kicked off in front of a packed crowd in Atlanta, with fans from both Ohio State and Notre Dame filling the stands, creating a sea of contrasting colors—scarlet and gray for Ohio State, and navy blue and gold for Notre Dame. From the opening whistle, it was clear that this was going to be a physical, high-intensity battle, with both teams showcasing their strengths early on.

The first quarter was tightly contested, with Ohio State striking first with a field goal from their kicker Noah Ruggles after an impressive drive by McCord and the offense. The Buckeyes’ ability to move the ball with quick passes and strong runs had Notre Dame’s defense on its heels. However, Notre Dame quickly responded with a touchdown drive that was led by Sam Hartman, who connected with wide receiver Chris Tyree for a 27-yard touchdown. Hartman’s poise in the pocket and his ability to lead his team down the field in critical moments would prove to be a significant asset for the Fighting Irish.

The rest of the first half was marked by offensive fireworks. Ohio State’s offense, which had been so dominant throughout the season, began to find its rhythm as McCord connected with Marvin Harrison Jr. for a spectacular 41-yard touchdown reception, taking the lead for the Buckeyes. Harrison’s performance in the first half was a testament to his exceptional ability to make plays in clutch situations. Despite Notre Dame’s defense playing tough, there was simply no stopping the sheer talent and speed of Ohio State’s offensive stars.

Not to be outdone, Notre Dame had a response of their own. Hartman orchestrated a perfect drive in the second quarter, leading the Irish offense on a 12-play, 75-yard march that culminated in a touchdown run by Audric Estime. Estime’s tough, bruising run game had been a major factor for Notre Dame all season long, and his ability to break tackles and power his way into the end zone kept the Fighting Irish within striking distance.

By halftime, the game was deadlocked at 17-17, with both teams having displayed their offensive firepower and resilience. Fans in the stands knew that the second half would be critical, as it seemed clear that the team that could adapt and adjust in the final 30 minutes would come out victorious.

Second Half: A Defensive Struggle and Key Plays

The second half began with both teams tightening up defensively. After a fast-paced first half, both Ohio State and Notre Dame realized they needed to focus more on the defensive side of the ball if they were to keep the other team from pulling away. The Buckeyes’ defense, led by defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, turned up the pressure on Hartman, dialing up blitzes and keeping the Fighting Irish’s offense off balance. J.T. Tuimoloau was an absolute force in the second half, recording multiple quarterback pressures and disrupting Notre Dame’s passing game.

The defining moment of the second half came late in the third quarter, when Ohio State’s defense forced a crucial turnover. On a critical 3rd-and-7 play, Hartman dropped back to pass but was hit by Tuimoloau, causing the ball to flutter into the air. Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers made a diving interception, giving the Buckeyes excellent field position in Notre Dame territory. McCord and the offense took advantage of the turnover, driving down the field and capping the possession with a touchdown pass to tight end Cade Stover. The touchdown gave Ohio State a 24-17 lead, their first significant lead of the game.

Notre Dame, however, refused to back down. Hartman, who had been under constant pressure, led a poised drive early in the fourth quarter, setting up a 15-yard touchdown pass to Tobias Merriweather to tie the game once again at 24-24. With the game now on the line, both teams knew they were playing for it all.

Final Moments: Ohio State’s Clutch Playmakers Take Over

With the game tied and just under five minutes remaining, the stage was set for a dramatic finish. Ohio State, looking to take control, leaned on their star quarterback Kyle McCord and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. McCord, who had been sensational all game, engineered a poised drive that kept the Fighting Irish on their toes. He completed several key passes, including a critical 3rd-and-8 conversion to Emeka Egbuka, setting the Buckeyes up in the red zone.

In the final minute of the game, McCord found Harrison in the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown, a beautiful 15-yard reception that gave Ohio State a 31-24 lead. Harrison’s ability to make plays in key moments was a defining factor in the game, and the All-American wide receiver once again proved why he is considered one of the best in the country.

Notre Dame had one final chance to tie the game, but Ohio State’s defense held firm. On the game’s final possession, the Fighting Irish advanced to the Buckeyes’ 30-yard line, but with no timeouts remaining, Hartman’s final pass attempt was intercepted by Ohio State’s Denzel Burke, sealing the game and giving Ohio State the 34-27 victory.

Celebration and Legacy: Ohio State’s 2025 National Championship

As the final whistle blew, the celebration began for the Ohio State Buckeyes, who had finally captured their long-awaited national championship. Players and coaches embraced on the field, with emotions running high. For Ryan Day, this victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of his staff and players. The Buckeyes had faced adversity throughout the season, but in the end, it was their talent, resilience, and ability to perform in clutch moments that earned them the title.

For Kyle McCord, Marvin Harrison Jr., and the rest of the Buckeye stars, this national championship was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the program. The victory solidified their places in Ohio State football history, and the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship will be remembered as one of the most exciting and hard-fought games in the sport’s history.

As Ohio State celebrates their victory, the Fighting Irish, though disappointed, can hold their heads high after a remarkable season. For both programs, the 2025 season will be remembered as a classic, filled with drama, heart, and unforgettable moments.