As Notre Dame prepares for its showdown against Ohio State in the CFP National Championship, the Fighting Irish are facing significant challenges with injuries on both sides of the trenches. The No. 7-seeded Irish will enter Monday night’s game shorthanded, having to make critical roster adjustments to stay competitive against the Buckeyes’ formidable lineup.
Injuries Rock the Roster
Notre Dame’s defensive line took a major hit in their first-round playoff victory over Indiana when standout lineman Rylie Mills suffered a season-ending injury. Adding to their woes, the Irish have already been without key pass rushers Jordan Botelho and Boubacar Traore, who sustained injuries during the regular season.
The offensive line has also been riddled with setbacks. True freshman Anthonie Knapp, who has been instrumental for the Irish this season, was ruled out due to a high-ankle sprain suffered during the Orange Bowl against Penn State. Additionally, right guard Rocco Spindler sustained an ankle injury in the same game, leaving Notre Dame with critical gaps to fill on their offensive line.
Even before the playoffs, the Irish suffered a blow to their depth at left tackle when Charles Jagusah, initially projected to start, sustained a pectoral injury in August. The injury was thought to be season-ending, but Notre Dame’s extended postseason run has provided enough recovery time for Jagusah to be considered for action.
Key Decision at Left Tackle
The Irish coaching staff faced a pivotal choice for Monday night’s game: start Tosh Baker, who stepped in for Knapp during the semifinal, or roll with the now-recovered Charles Jagusah. After careful evaluation, head coach Marcus Freeman announced that Jagusah would start at left tackle against Ohio State’s powerful front seven.
Freeman expressed confidence in Jagusah, stating, “Charles has been working incredibly hard to get back on the field. His strength and composure in high-pressure situations will be critical for us against a team like Ohio State.”
According to reports from practice, Jagusah lined up as the starting left tackle during Saturday’s session, while Spindler was seen practicing at right tackle. Meanwhile, Baker worked as an extra lineman, filling in at tight end during specific formations.
Notre Dame is expected to start redshirt freshman Charles Jagusah at left tackle in the national title game, per Marcus Freeman. It'll be his first start of the season and second overall start. Freeman said Jagusah has been playing primarily LT in practice. pic.twitter.com/9wLwGJIJwL
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 18, 2025
Jagusah’s Impact on the Offense
Jagusah’s return is a timely boost for Notre Dame. His strong second-half performance against Penn State in the Orange Bowl helped reignite the Irish’s rushing attack, showcasing his ability to create running lanes and hold his ground against top-tier defensive fronts. Freeman praised Jagusah’s adaptability and determination, noting that his return could give the Irish a much-needed edge in the trenches.
Though Baker filled in admirably during the semifinal, Jagusah’s physicality and experience make him the ideal choice against Ohio State’s stout defensive line. “Charles brings an energy and discipline that can help stabilize our offensive line under pressure,” Freeman added.
A Battle in the Trenches
Facing Ohio State’s front seven will be no small feat. The Buckeyes boast one of the most dominant defensive lines in college football, and Notre Dame’s offensive line will need to be at its best to protect quarterback Sam Hartman and establish a strong ground game.
Freeman emphasized that despite the injuries, Notre Dame remains focused and ready. “We’ve dealt with adversity all season, and this is no different. It’s about finding the right combinations and putting our guys in the best position to succeed,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Monday night’s matchup at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta will mark Notre Dame’s opportunity to secure its first national championship since 1988. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the Fighting Irish aim to overcome injuries, execute their game plan, and dethrone the No. 8-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on how Notre Dame’s adjustments in the trenches play out in this high-stakes clash for college football supremacy.
