
The 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship is set to feature a highly anticipated matchup between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
This championship game will determine the national champion for the 2024 NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) season.
Date, Time, and Venue
The championship game is scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2025, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). The game will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, a premier venue known for hosting significant sporting events.
Broadcast Information
Fans can watch the game live on ESPN, which holds the broadcasting rights for the CFP National Championship. The network’s coverage will include commentary from seasoned announcers Chris Fowler (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), and sideline reporters Holly Rowe and Molly McGrath. For those preferring to stream the game, it will be available through the ESPN App, providing flexibility for viewers on various devices.
Team Overviews
Ohio State Buckeyes: Entering the championship with a 13–2 record, the Buckeyes have demonstrated resilience throughout the season. Their journey to the title game included a decisive victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl semifinal, where they secured a 28–14 win. Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State’s offense has been prolific, complemented by a steadfast defense that has been instrumental in their postseason success.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: The Fighting Irish boast a 14–1 record, with their sole loss occurring early in the season. Their path to the championship was marked by a narrow 27–24 victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl semifinal. Head coach Marcus Freeman has been lauded for guiding Notre Dame to the national championship game, showcasing strategic acumen and the ability to motivate his squad in high-stakes situations.
Historical Context
This matchup rekindles a storied rivalry between two of college football’s most prestigious programs. The teams last met in 2023, with Ohio State emerging victorious in a closely contested game. Historically, the Buckeyes have dominated the series, winning six consecutive games against the Fighting Irish. However, Notre Dame’s current form and strategic prowess suggest that this championship encounter could defy past trends.
Betting Odds
As of the latest reports, Ohio State is favored by 8.5 points over Notre Dame. The over/under for the game is set at 45.5 points, indicating expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair. Bettors can find a moneyline of +285 for Notre Dame, reflecting their underdog status in this championship clash.
Viewing Experience
For fans planning to watch the game, ESPN’s comprehensive coverage will include pre-game analysis, in-depth commentary, and post-game insights. The ESPN App offers streaming options for viewers who prefer to watch on mobile devices or computers, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. Given the significance of the matchup, it’s advisable to tune in early to catch all pre-game festivities and commentary.
Conclusion
The CFP National Championship between Ohio State and Notre Dame promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the college football season. With both teams exhibiting exceptional talent and determination, fans can anticipate a game that embodies the excitement and unpredictability that defines college football. Whether watching on television or streaming online, this is a matchup that enthusiasts won’t want to miss.