Introduction to Ohio State Buckeyes football vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish football match player stats
The much-anticipated showdown between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish took place on January 20, 2025, in the College Football Playoff National Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia. This game marked an intense battle between two powerhouse programs, each looking to claim the coveted national title. Ohio State emerged victorious with a 34-23 win, capturing their first championship since 2014.
The game was filled with explosive plays, strategic coaching moves, and standout individual performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams showcased their strengths, with Ohio State dominating in offensive efficiency while Notre Dame fought hard until the final whistle. The Buckeyes’ balanced offensive attack and strong defensive stands ultimately led them to victory, while the Fighting Irish struggled to contain Ohio State’s dynamic playmakers.
Table of Contents
Game Overview – A Battle of Momentum Shifts
The game kicked off with Notre Dame executing a near-perfect opening drive, consuming almost ten minutes of the clock and capping it off with quarterback Riley Leonard’s 1-yard touchdown run. The drive set the tone early, showcasing Notre Dame’s ability to control possession and keep Ohio State’s explosive offense off the field. However, the Buckeyes responded in the second quarter, shifting the momentum in their favor with a series of well-orchestrated drives. Quarterback Will Howard connected with freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith for an 8-yard touchdown, completing a methodical 75-yard drive.
Moments later, star running back Quinshon Judkins added to Ohio State’s lead with a 9-yard rushing touchdown, demonstrating his ability to break through Notre Dame’s defensive front. Before halftime, Howard and Judkins combined again for a 6-yard touchdown reception, giving Ohio State a 21-7 lead going into the break.
Ohio State continued their dominance in the third quarter, with Judkins adding his second rushing touchdown on a 1-yard run, extending the Buckeyes’ lead to 31-7. Their offensive efficiency was on full display as Jayden Fielding nailed a 46-yard field goal, pushing their advantage further. Despite the seemingly insurmountable deficit, Notre Dame refused to back down. Riley Leonard found Jaden Greathouse for a 34-yard touchdown pass, injecting life into the Fighting Irish. They struck again with another Greathouse touchdown reception from 30 yards out, cutting Ohio State’s lead to 31-23.
However, the Buckeyes’ defense stiffened in the closing minutes, shutting down Notre Dame’s final attempts at a comeback. A late 33-yard field goal by Fielding sealed the win for Ohio State, solidifying their championship run.
Key Player Performances – Standouts on Both Sides
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes’ offensive success was driven by the outstanding performance of Will Howard, who completed 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns, maintaining an incredible 81% completion rate. His poise and precision were instrumental in Ohio State’s ability to sustain drives and convert crucial third downs. Running back Quinshon Judkins stole the show, rushing for 100 yards on 20 carries, averaging 5 yards per attempt, and scoring two touchdowns on the ground while also contributing a receiving touchdown. Freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith had a breakout game, recording five receptions for 88 yards, including a critical 56-yard catch that helped set up a scoring drive.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Despite the loss, Riley Leonard delivered a commendable performance under center. He completed 22 of 32 passes for 255 yards and two touchdowns, posting a 68.8% completion rate. He also rushed for 40 yards on 17 carries, scoring Notre Dame’s opening touchdown. Jaden Greathouse was the primary playmaker for the Fighting Irish, catching eight passes for 128 yards and two touchdowns, proving to be a difficult matchup for Ohio State’s secondary. However, Notre Dame’s rushing attack struggled, managing only 53 total rushing yards, a factor that limited their ability to sustain offensive drives.
Team Statistics – The Numbers Behind the Game
Ohio State’s offensive efficiency was a key factor in their victory. The Buckeyes racked up 445 total yards, balancing 231 passing yards with an impressive 214 rushing yards. They moved the chains effectively, recording 22 first downs and converting 9 of 12 third-down attempts, keeping Notre Dame’s defense on the field. The Fighting Irish, in contrast, were limited to 308 total yards, with their struggles in the rushing department (just 53 rushing yards) contributing to their offensive inconsistency.
Their 5 of 12 third-down conversions further highlighted their inability to sustain long drives. Turnovers played a minor role in the game, with Ohio State committing one fumble, while Notre Dame managed to avoid giveaways, yet they still couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities.
Coaching & Strategic Takeaways
Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day executed a near-flawless game plan, emphasizing a balanced offensive attack that kept Notre Dame’s defense guessing. The Buckeyes mixed the run and pass effectively, preventing the Fighting Irish from keying in on any one aspect of their offense. Day’s aggressive play-calling on third downs allowed Ohio State to sustain drives and keep Notre Dame’s offense off the field for extended stretches. On the defensive side, the Buckeyes’ ability to pressure Riley Leonard and contain Notre Dame’s running game was crucial in limiting their opponent’s scoring opportunities.
For Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman, the game highlighted areas that need improvement. The Fighting Irish controlled the clock early but failed to sustain their success throughout the game. Their defensive struggles against Ohio State’s rushing attack and their inability to generate consistent pressure on Will Howard ultimately cost them. Offensively, while Leonard and Greathouse put up solid numbers, the lack of a productive ground game forced Notre Dame into a one-dimensional attack, making them easier to defend in the second half.
Final Thoughts – Ohio State’s Championship Triumph
The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship delivered a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s most storied programs. Ohio State’s 34-23 victory was a testament to their offensive efficiency, defensive resilience, and strategic execution. Will Howard’s leadership, Quinshon Judkins’ dominance on the ground, and the emergence of freshman star Jeremiah Smith propelled the Buckeyes to their first title in over a decade.
On the other hand, Notre Dame showcased their talent and determination, with Riley Leonard and Jaden Greathouse putting up impressive performances. However, their struggles in the run game and defensive inconsistencies ultimately led to their downfall.
With this victory, Ohio State re-establishes itself as a dominant force in college football, while Notre Dame will look to regroup and come back stronger next season. This game will be remembered as a classic national championship showdown, filled with remarkable individual performances, strategic battles, and unforgettable moments. As both teams set their sights on the 2025-26 season, college football fans can only hope for another matchup of this caliber in the years to come.
Also read – Ohio State Buckeyes Football vs Texas Longhorns Football Match Player Stats: January 11, 2025.
