COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME PREVIEW

NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH TAKE ON OHIO STATE BUCKEYES IN TITLE SHOWDOWN

ATLANTA, GA – The stage is set for the ultimate showdown in college football as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to take place on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

*FINAL SCORE PREDICTION: NOTRE DAME TO COVER THE SPREAD*

According to Action Network, the Buckeyes are favored to win by 8 points, with the over/under set at 45.5. However, our expert analysts predict that Notre Dame will cover the spread, if not win outright.

“Notre Dame’s defense has been stellar all season, and they’ve shown a knack for making big plays in crucial situations,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “I think they’ll be able to contain Ohio State’s offense and keep the game within striking distance.”

*KEY MATCHUPS TO WATCH*

Several key matchups will determine the outcome of the game. One of the most crucial battles will be between Notre Dame’s running game and Ohio State’s defense. The Fighting Irish have relied heavily on their ground game all season, and they’ll need to establish a consistent rushing attack to keep the Buckeyes’ defense guessing.

Another key matchup will be between Ohio State’s passing attack and Notre Dame’s secondary. The Buckeyes have one of the most explosive passing games in the country, and they’ll look to exploit the Fighting Irish’s secondary for big plays.

*X-FACTORS*

Several X-factors could swing the outcome of the game in favor of either team. One of the most critical factors will be turnovers. Whichever team is able to capitalize on turnovers and gain an advantage in field position and momentum will have a significant edge.

Another key X-factor will be the performance of Notre Dame’s kicker. The Fighting Irish have struggled with consistency in the kicking game all season, and they’ll need to deliver in clutch situations to keep pace with the Buckeyes.

*COACHING MATCHUP*

The coaching matchup between Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman and Ohio State’s Ryan Day will also play a critical role in determining the outcome of the game. Both coaches have shown a knack for making adjustments on the fly and motivating their teams to perform at their best.

“Marcus Freeman has done an incredible job of getting his team ready to play every week,” said ESPN analyst David Pollack. “He’s a great motivator, and he’s always looking for ways to get an edge.”

*PLAYER TO WATCH*

One player to watch in the championship game is Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard. Leonard has been a revelation all season, leading the Fighting Irish to several comeback victories with his clutch performances.

“Riley Leonard is a special player,” said Herbstreit. “He’s got a knack for making big plays in crucial situations, and he’s always looking for ways to improve his game.”

*FINAL THOUGHTS*

The College Football Playoff National Championship Game promises to be an instant classic. With two of the most storied programs in college football facing off, the intensity and excitement will be palpable.

Notre Dame’s defense will be put to the test against Ohio State’s high-powered offense, but the Fighting Irish have shown all season that they’re up for the challenge.

In the end, it’s anyone’s game. But if Notre Dame can establish a consistent running game, contain Ohio State’s passing attack, and capitalize on turnovers, they’ll have a great chance of pulling off the upset.

*GAME DETAILS*

– Date: Saturday, January 20, 2025

– Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

– Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

*STAY TUNED FOR LIVE COVERAGE OF THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME*