The College Football Playoff National Championship is set to feature the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (14–1) against the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes (13–2) on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. This marks the first time both teams have reached the championship under the expanded 12-team playoff format. Ohio State enters the game as an 8.5-point favorite, having demonstrated resilience throughout the season. The Buckeyes secured their spot in the title game with a 28–14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl semifinal, showcasing a balanced offense and a defense that forced crucial turnovers.

Notre Dame’s path to the championship included a thrilling 27–24 win over Penn State in the Orange Bowl semifinal, where quarterback Riley Leonard led a second-half comeback, exemplifying the team’s tenacity. The Fighting Irish defense has been formidable, allowing just 14.3 points per game, ranking second nationally. However, they will face a potent Ohio State offense led by quarterback Will Howard, who has thrown for 3,779 yards this season, with freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith amassing 1,227 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. The matchup promises to be a compelling contest between Notre Dame’s staunch defense and Ohio State’s explosive offense.