The matchup between Notre Dame and Ohio State in the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship is set to spark fierce debates across the nation. As two of college football’s most storied programs, the clash promises drama, intrigue, and intense competition. Yet, beyond the glitzy headlines, several questions loom large, each with the potential to define the game and its legacy.
1. Can Notre Dame’s Defense Hold Ohio State’s Offense? Ohio State’s offense, led by a potent quarterback and an elite receiving corps, has been nearly unstoppable all season. The question arises: can Notre Dame’s vaunted defense, known for its physicality and discipline, withstand the pressure? While the Irish have shown defensive resilience, facing a team like Ohio State — with explosive playmakers such as Marvin Harrison Jr. — is a different animal entirely. If Notre Dame’s secondary falters, the Buckeyes could quickly exploit mismatches.
2. Will Notre Dame’s Quarterback Play Be Enough? Sam Hartman, Notre Dame’s veteran quarterback, is the team’s centerpiece. But the big question is whether he can perform at the highest level in this high-stakes environment. Hartman’s ability to stay poised under pressure will determine whether Notre Dame can keep pace with Ohio State’s high-powered offense. His performance in big games has been questioned in the past, and this stage will leave little room for error.
3. Is Ohio State’s Defense Ready for a Physical Ground Game? Ohio State’s defense has improved throughout the season, but can they match up against Notre Dame’s bruising, balanced offensive attack? The Irish have one of the most dynamic running back duos in the nation, and if they can control the line of scrimmage, it could keep Ohio State’s offense off the field. The Buckeyes will need to show they can stop the run and prevent Notre Dame from dominating the time of possession.
4. Will the Atmosphere Be Too Much for the Irish? Notre Dame has a rich history, but Ohio State’s home-field advantage in the CFP National Championship would be formidable. The Buckeyes’ fanbase is one of the most passionate in the country, and the game is set to be a high-energy spectacle. Will the pressure of playing in a hostile environment overwhelm the Irish, or will they rise to the occasion?
5. Can Notre Dame Overcome Ohio State’s Recruiting Advantage? Ohio State has long been a recruiting powerhouse, consistently bringing in top-tier talent. Notre Dame, while excellent at developing players, often operates with a smaller talent pool. This disparity has led many to question whether the Irish can truly compete with the sheer depth and speed that Ohio State possesses, particularly in a game of this magnitude.
6. How Will Ohio State’s Offensive Line Handle Notre Dame’s Front Seven? Notre Dame’s defensive line is among the best in college football, and their ability to disrupt Ohio State’s offensive line could be the key to neutralizing the Buckeyes’ passing attack. Can Ohio State’s offensive line, which has been solid but not dominant, withstand the pressure and give their quarterback enough time to make plays?
7. Is Notre Dame’s Schedule as Strong as Ohio State’s? The strength of schedule is a constant topic of debate. While Notre Dame played some tough opponents, Ohio State’s conference schedule in the Big Ten is often seen as more rigorous. Some argue that the Buckeyes have been battle-tested in ways that the Irish simply haven’t been. Could this be a factor when the game goes down to the wire?
8. Can Notre Dame’s Special Teams Change the Game? Special teams often get overlooked in big games, but in a national championship setting, a single return or field goal miss can shift the momentum dramatically. Notre Dame has one of the best special teams units in the nation, and if they can generate a big play in this area, it could be the difference-maker.
9. Will Ryan Day’s Coaching Experience Be a Factor? Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day, has been in the spotlight before, having led the Buckeyes to multiple playoff appearances. His ability to make adjustments on the fly, especially in the face of adversity, will be a major factor. On the other hand, Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame’s first-year head coach, has a chance to make a statement, but the pressure of coaching in the biggest game of the year might prove to be overwhelming.
10. Can a Legacy Be Forged by Winning or Lost in Defeat? For both programs, this championship represents more than just a game—it’s about legacy. A win would cement Notre Dame’s return to elite status, proving they can stand toe-to-toe with the juggernauts of college football. A loss, however, might renew the debate about whether the Irish can ever truly compete at the highest level. For Ohio State, another national title could further solidify their place as a modern dynasty.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, these questions will swirl, shaping the narrative of what promises to be a thrilling College Football Playoff National Championship. Each team has something to prove, and each has the tools to claim victory. Only time will tell who emerges victorious, but the stakes couldn’t be higher for either side.
