The upcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish has garnered significant attention, particularly regarding the betting odds favoring Ohio State.
As of January 11, 2025, sportsbooks such as FanDuel have established the Buckeyes as 9.5-point favorites over the Fighting Irish.
This point spread is notable as it ranks among the largest in CFP National Championship history. If it holds, it would be tied for the second-largest spread in the title game’s history. The over/under point total for the game is set at 47.5 points, indicating expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair.
Ohio State’s status as a substantial favorite can be attributed to several factors. The Buckeyes have demonstrated formidable performance throughout the season, culminating in a decisive 28-14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl semifinal. This win was highlighted by a pivotal 83-yard fumble return for a touchdown by defensive end Jack Sawyer, underscoring the team’s defensive prowess.
In contrast, Notre Dame’s journey to the championship has been marked by resilience and determination. The Fighting Irish secured their spot in the title game with a narrow 27-24 victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl semifinal. Since an unexpected loss to Northern Illinois earlier in the season, Notre Dame has exhibited remarkable improvement, winning consecutive games to earn their place in the championship.
The history between these two storied programs adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup. Ohio State and Notre Dame have faced each other on several occasions, with the Buckeyes holding a 5-2 advantage in the all-time series. Their most recent encounter was in 2023, where Ohio State secured a narrow 17-14 victory.
Despite the odds favoring Ohio State, Notre Dame’s head coach Marcus Freeman remains optimistic about his team’s chances. Freeman, who has led the Fighting Irish to a 33-9 record since taking over as head coach, emphasizes the importance of preparation and resilience. Interestingly, Freeman has attracted attention from the NFL, with reports indicating that the Chicago Bears are interested in interviewing him for their head coaching position.
On the other side, Ohio State’s head coach Ryan Day has expressed confidence in his team’s abilities, highlighting their determination and belief as key factors in their success. The Buckeyes are seeking their first national title since 2014, while the Fighting Irish aim to secure their first championship since 1988.
As the championship game approaches, analysts and fans alike are keenly observing any shifts in the betting lines, as well as developments in team preparations. While the Buckeyes are favored, the Fighting Irish have demonstrated the capacity to overcome adversity, setting the stage for a compelling and unpredictable showdown on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
