Ohio State versus Notre Dame football: These matchups might decide the National Championship game.

As the college football season reaches its peak, few matchups carry the weight of the Ohio State Buckeyes versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. These two historic programs have long been staples in the college football elite, and as both teams approach a potential showdown in the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, the stakes could not be higher. With rosters packed with talent, strong coaching staffs, and a tradition of success, the outcome of this contest is likely to shape the direction of college football history. While the teams share many similarities in terms of talent and prestige, the key to determining the national champion may lie in a few critical matchups.

In this article, we will break down the key areas of the Ohio State versus Notre Dame game and identify which specific matchups could ultimately decide the National Championship. From offensive line play to quarterback duels, both teams will have to address weaknesses, leverage strengths, and make pivotal decisions in these critical areas to emerge as the victor in the battle for college football supremacy.

1. The Quarterback Battle: Kyle McCord (Ohio State) vs. Sam Hartman (Notre Dame)

Perhaps the most high-profile matchup of all is the duel between the quarterbacks, Kyle McCord of Ohio State and Sam Hartman of Notre Dame. Both quarterbacks have the ability to dictate the flow of the game, and whichever player performs best could swing the game in favor of their team.

Kyle McCord – Ohio State

Kyle McCord has stepped up to the challenge of being Ohio State’s starting quarterback, taking over from the highly successful C.J. Stroud. McCord has demonstrated his poise in the pocket, accuracy on deep throws, and his ability to execute head coach Ryan Day’s fast-paced offense. The Buckeyes’ passing attack is one of the most potent in the nation, with McCord having the luxury of targeting the elite Marvin Harrison Jr., arguably the best wide receiver in college football. McCord’s accuracy and ability to stretch the field vertically will be pivotal against Notre Dame’s defense.

In this championship showdown, McCord must avoid turnovers and maintain his composure in high-pressure situations. If Ohio State’s offense is to outpace Notre Dame, McCord must exploit the Fighting Irish’s defensive weaknesses while avoiding mistakes that could swing the momentum in Notre Dame’s favor.

Sam Hartman – Notre Dame

Sam Hartman brings a wealth of experience to the table, having transferred from Wake Forest to Notre Dame with high expectations. Known for his leadership and ability to make big throws in clutch moments, Hartman has been the catalyst for Notre Dame’s offensive resurgence in 2024. His calm demeanor, sharp decision-making, and ability to manage the game will be essential in a matchup against a defense as talented as Ohio State’s.

Hartman has shown that he can play in high-pressure situations, and his deep ball accuracy and quick release will be important against a pass rush like Ohio State’s. If Hartman can distribute the ball effectively to Notre Dame’s playmakers and keep Ohio State’s defense on its heels, he could give the Fighting Irish a significant advantage.

The Key Factor: Which quarterback will make fewer mistakes and deliver in the clutch?

Both McCord and Hartman have the ability to make plays and lead their teams, but mistakes—whether in the form of interceptions, sacks, or turnovers—will likely determine the winner of this high-stakes game. The quarterback that avoids costly errors and performs in the final moments of the game will likely be the one who lifts their team to a national championship.

2. Offensive Line Play: Ohio State’s Strength vs. Notre Dame’s Defense

A critical factor in any championship-caliber game is the battle in the trenches, and both teams have formidable lines that will determine the flow of the game. The ability of the offensive line to protect the quarterback and create running lanes will be pivotal in establishing offensive rhythm and controlling the tempo.

Ohio State’s Offensive Line

Ohio State’s offensive line is often regarded as one of the most talented in the nation. The Buckeyes have consistently churned out NFL-caliber linemen, and in 2024, the offensive line is again a strength of the team. With a combination of size, power, and athleticism, Ohio State’s offensive line has provided McCord with the time and space to operate efficiently. The line’s ability to protect McCord in the pocket will be essential against a Notre Dame defense that can apply heavy pressure.

Additionally, Ohio State’s offensive line will need to pave the way for the running game, which will help balance out the offense and open up passing lanes. Ohio State’s running back unit, including Travon Henderson, has been potent all season, and the offensive line’s ability to create holes will allow them to establish a ground game that forces Notre Dame to respect both the run and the pass.

Notre Dame’s Defensive Front

On the other side of the ball, Notre Dame’s defense is led by a strong front seven, with standout players like Isaiah Foskey and JD Bertrand. The Irish have been known for their ability to get pressure on the quarterback, and in this game, they will need to disrupt McCord’s rhythm. A steady pass rush and strong run defense will force Ohio State to rely on McCord to make quick, decisive throws under duress.

Notre Dame’s ability to contain Ohio State’s running game will also be crucial. The Fighting Irish have shown a capacity to bottle up opponents’ ground attacks, and doing so against Ohio State’s dynamic running backs will be key to slowing down the Buckeyes’ offense. If they can limit Ohio State’s running game and get to McCord in the pocket, it could force the Buckeyes into uncomfortable third-and-long situations, which would benefit the Irish.

The Key Factor: Will Ohio State’s offensive line dominate the line of scrimmage, or will Notre Dame’s front seven stymie the Buckeyes’ attack?

The team that wins the battle in the trenches is likely to control the game. If Ohio State’s offensive line can provide McCord with clean pockets and create space for their running backs, it will be tough for Notre Dame to keep pace. Conversely, if Notre Dame can pressure McCord and stifle Ohio State’s running attack, it could give the Irish defense the upper hand.

3. Wide Receiver Corps vs. Secondary: Ohio State’s Explosive Playmakers vs. Notre Dame’s Secondary

One of the most exciting aspects of this potential national championship matchup is the showdown between Ohio State’s elite wide receiver corps and Notre Dame’s stout secondary. Ohio State’s passing game has been one of the most prolific in the nation, and with Marvin Harrison Jr. leading the charge, the Buckeyes’ receiving corps is capable of making big plays at any time. Harrison’s combination of size, speed, and athleticism makes him nearly impossible to defend, and he will be a focal point of Ohio State’s passing attack.

Ohio State’s Wide Receivers

Besides Harrison, Ohio State has other talented wideouts like Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming, who are capable of taking over games with their speed and ability to separate from defenders. The Buckeyes’ diverse receiving options give McCord the ability to go to a variety of targets, making it difficult for opposing defenses to key in on just one player.

Notre Dame’s Secondary

Notre Dame’s secondary will face a tall order in trying to stop Ohio State’s high-powered passing game. However, the Irish have one of the most talented groups of defensive backs in the nation, led by Benjamin Morrison, who has been an elite cornerback all season. Morrison’s ability to lock down opposing receivers will be crucial in neutralizing Ohio State’s deep threats. Additionally, safety DJ Brown and cornerback Clarence Lewis will need to provide support in coverage to prevent the Buckeyes from exploiting the deep ball.

The key to Notre Dame’s success in this area will be their ability to mix coverages and generate pressure on McCord. If they can disrupt McCord’s timing with his receivers and force him into bad throws, it could lead to turnovers and stalled drives.

The Key Factor: Can Notre Dame’s secondary contain Ohio State’s explosive passing attack, or will the Buckeyes’ wide receivers overwhelm the Irish defense?

The ability of Ohio State’s passing game to break open big plays will be one of the most crucial factors in determining the outcome. If Notre Dame can hold its own in coverage and limit Ohio State’s deep-ball opportunities, the Irish could gain a significant advantage. However, if Ohio State’s receivers dominate in one-on-one matchups, it could tilt the game in the Buckeyes’ favor.

4. Special Teams: The Hidden X-Factor

Special teams may not always receive the attention they deserve, but in a game of this magnitude, they can be the difference between victory and defeat. Ohio State and Notre Dame both have solid special teams units, but one big play—whether it’s a punt return for a touchdown, a field goal in a clutch moment, or a long kickoff return—could swing the momentum in favor of either team.

The ability to capitalize on field position, execute successful kickoffs and punts, and make key field goals will be critical in a tight game where every point matters. Special teams will likely be an overlooked but essential component in determining which team emerges as national champion.