Fighting Irish Today

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – Ohio State’s high-powered offense dominated its first two College Football Playoff matchups, but the Buckeyes showcased their defensive prowess in a commanding win over Texas in the semifinals. Now, they enter the national title game heavily favored to secure their first championship since 2014 when they face Notre Dame on January 20.

How to Watch Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

• Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta, GA
• Time: Monday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. ET
• TV: ESPN
• Streaming: Fubo (free trial available)
• Tickets: Available on StubHub

Betting Line and Spread

• Ohio State opened as 9.5-point favorites on BetMGM.
• OSU, the No. 8 seed, has been the favorite in all three of its playoff games, covering the spread each time. Notre Dame, as the No. 7 seed, has also covered the spread in all three games, although they were essentially even-money in their matchups against Georgia and Penn State.

Key Matchup: Can Notre Dame Slow Down Ohio State’s Offense?

Ohio State’s offense had its moments in the semifinal against Texas, but it was less explosive than in previous rounds. This might give Notre Dame hope, as the Fighting Irish boast the second-best scoring defense in the country, allowing just 14.3 points per game. Texas, ranked fourth in scoring defense, was able to hold standout receiver Jeremiah Smith to just one reception for three yards. Notre Dame will look to replicate that success, especially after shutting down Penn State’s receiving corps in their semifinal.

Despite the quiet performance from Smith, Ohio State’s offense remained effective, proving it can win without relying heavily on its star receiver. On the flip side, Notre Dame will need to control the clock and limit possessions for Ohio State’s explosive offense. The Irish’s best chance lies in their strong run game, led by Jeremiyah Love, who has shown a knack for leaping over defenders, and the dual-threat ability of quarterback Riley Leonard.

However, going up against a stout defense like Ohio State’s, which ranks No. 1 in scoring defense (allowing just 12.2 points per game), will be a challenge. With both teams known for their defensive strength, this game is likely to be a low-scoring affair, which is reflected in the game’s over/under, set at 45.5.

Historical Context

• Ohio State leads the all-time series 6-2, with both of Notre Dame’s victories coming before World War II.
• The most recent meetings have all occurred in the last 30 years, including a home-and-home series the last two seasons. Last year, Ohio State narrowly won 17-14 in South Bend, while the year prior, they triumphed 21-10 in Columbus.

Ohio State’s last national title came in the 2014 season, while Notre Dame’s most recent championship was in 1988.

Prediction: Ohio State -9.5

While Jeremiah Smith was held in check by Texas’ defense, Ohio State still managed to win convincingly. Notre Dame has a strong pass defense, but the Buckeyes have proven they can win big games without their top receiver playing a starring role. The trend of favorites dominating in the College Football Playoff — going 9-1 outright and 8-2 against the spread — bodes well for Ohio State. With more offensive weapons and a strong defense, the Buckeyes are the pick to cover the spread, despite the large number.

Odds for Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Stay tuned for more in-depth coverage as we get closer to the championship game, including the latest updates on injuries, player performances, and more insights into the matchup.

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