The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday at 7:30 P.M. ET in Atlanta, Georgia, with the game broadcast live on ESPN. Ohio State enters the national championship game riding high after an impressive performance against the Texas Longhorns, while Notre Dame showcased its strength by defeating the Penn State Nittany Lions in the semifinals.
Interestingly, the championship matchup features two teams that endured some of the season’s most shocking losses. The Fighting Irish stumbled early with a stunning 16-14 defeat to Northern Illinois, while the Buckeyes fell 13-10 to their archrival, the Michigan Wolverines.
The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format has given both teams a second chance at glory. Coaches Ryan Day and Marcus Freeman, who faced scrutiny just weeks ago, now find themselves leading their squads on college football’s biggest stage.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Game Preview and Odds
Game Odds
- Point Spread: Ohio State -8.5
- Money Line: Ohio State -350 / Notre Dame +280
- Over/Under: 46.5
Injury Updates
- Ohio State: Defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, who sustained an ankle injury against Texas, returned for the second half and will play Monday, though a heavier rotation may be used.
- Notre Dame: Offensive tackle Anthonie Knapp, a freshman starter for the past 15 games, will miss the title game due to an ankle injury, adding to the Fighting Irish’s offensive line struggles.
Prediction and Pick
Ohio State has been unstoppable since their loss to Michigan, showing growth and self-reflection. Notre Dame has outperformed expectations but struggled with injuries and narrowly escaped Penn State. The Buckeyes look like the stronger team heading into the championship.
Prediction: Ohio State 35, Notre Dame 14
Game Info
- Start Time: 7:30 P.M. ET
- Channel: ESPN
- Streaming: Available on ESPN platforms.
