Summary of the 2025 College Football National Championship Game

Overview of the Game:

The 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship was a pretty interesting match between Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish held in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia. Ohio State defeated the Notre Dame team with a score of 34-23 which ended on January 20, 2025. It added the ninth national championship to Ohio State and the first in the College Football Playoff era since its victory in 2015.

First Half:

Notre Dame scored in a strong opening drive with 18 plays, adding quarterback Riley Leonard on a 1-yard touchdown. Ohio State replied just as quick; quarterback Will Howard reached wide receiver Jeremiah Smith to take it in for the score. Then Ohio State's Quinshon Judkins scored with the Buckeyes to give them the lead on a 9-yard run.

Notre Dame wasn't any sharper on their second drive either, but the completions by Leonards to Kris Mitchell and Eli Raridon set up substantial yardage. Ohio State finished the first half well again with a third score by Judkins and left at halftime Ohio State 21, Notre Dame 7.

Second Half:

Ohio State would come out to start the third hot when Will Howard's touchdown pass stretched it to 28-7. The Buckeyes would eventually move in range and settle a few minutes later at 31-71 for them. Notre Dame would not just wilt and go away either as it answered with an Irish touchdown two point-conversion making it now 31-15.

Notre Dame was on one continuum in the fourth quarter with another touchdown and another two-point conversion that put them at a deficit of 31-23. But the Buckeyes had an answer for everything on Monday as Will Howard of Ohio State found Jeremiah Smith for 56 yards. That resulted in a field goal and Ohio State closing it out, 34-23.

The Buckeyes' defense was solid in the final minutes to seal their win for the national title. It was Ohio State's first national championship since 2014.

Awards Ceremony:

The post-game awards ceremony gave the following awards to both teams:

Offensive MVP: Ohio State quarterback Will Howard took home the Offensive MVP in this game because he was calm and precise throughout, managing the tempo of the game when called upon to deliver.

Defensive MVP: The defensive MVP of the game was Cody Simon, who had an outstanding performance to lead Ohio State in tackles with eight, including one for loss1, enabling the Buckeyes to defeat Notre Dame.

The ceremony also honored the resilience and spirit of both teams, noting Notre Dame's remarkable run to the championship despite its early-season loss. Ohio State was presented with the CFP National Championship Trophy, sponsored by Dr Pepper, a historic moment for the team and its fanbase.

Post-Game Reflections:

The post-game analysis that followed praised Ohio State's game plan on defense while giving considerable notice to the coaches' preparation and in-game adjustments. Notre Dame was applauded for their tenacity and the development under head coach Marcus Freeman-who, against the loss, showed a great deal of progress with the team.

The 2025 National Championship ended Ohio State's drought of championships, but more importantly, perhaps, it laid the bedrock for a new series of future match-ups between them, as each team notched another entry in the annals of their rivalry. It was further evidence of what this expanded 12-team playoff format brings for college football: excitement and unpredictability.

It was the perfect finish to an amazing season with high-voltage displays of college football talent, skillful tactics, and enthusiasm.

CFP National Championship: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Full Game Highlights

CJ Donaldson to Ohio State: New Chapter 2025

In one of the more significant blows to West Virginia Mountaineers' backfield next season, power-running, bruising back CJ Donaldson Jr. has given a commitment to the Ohio State Buckeyes for 2025. In Donaldson, Ohio State gets perhaps one of the more dynamic power running backs in the country - the one that terrorizes defenses by not going down after contact easily.

It's been an eventful college football career so far for CJ Donaldson, who initially committed to West Virginia as a three-star recruit. A former tight end who made his way to running back, he wasted no time leaving his fingerprints on the gridiron. This versatile, strong back rushed 2,058 yards for 30 touchdowns in his three seasons with the Mountaineers. That commitment to Ohio State came on the heels of a visit made on December 23, 2024, which all but had signaled the end of his time at West Virginia and marked a new beginning.

Ohio State?

Ohio State's interest in Donaldson speaks to the school's intent on solidifying the backfield with veteran and physically imposing talent. His transfer comes at a time when the Buckeyes are trying to stay atop the Big Ten mountain, and one area that has received plenty of attention in recent times is in the running game. 

Ohio State Running Backs 2025 Outlook:

CJ Donaldson Jr.: The instant depth and a track record of success is what Donaldson brings into the transfer. Listed at 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, his size is very complementary to Ohio State's line - possibly allowing for some powerful rushing attacks.

Quinshon Judkins: If Judkins does not declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, he would still be a staple in the Buckeyes' backfield. His agility and vision were crucial in past seasons, and a potential return would make for an intriguing duo with Donaldson.

Younger Backs: Throw in a couple of young Buckeye talents in James Peoples and Sam Williams-Dixon. People's speed and the potential of William-Dixon could see them getting more opportunities, especially when different running styles are needed in the game.

Other transfers: The Buckeyes have been connected to a few other running backs through the transfer portal, which includes former USC running back Quinten Joyner. If true, these additions would only enhance the roster further with added depth and competition.

Coaching Perspective:

This coaching staff, led by Ryan Day and running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, is salivating with the new options this lineup presents. Donaldson's ability to break tackles and his experience within the Big 12 will more than likely make for an easy adjustment to the physicality of the Big Ten. Locklyn's philosophy is always to seek a balanced attack that no doubt will find opportunities to use Donaldson in matchups that could present mismatches.

Look Ahead:

The 2025 season at Ohio State looks bright for the fans of the running game. With CJ Donaldson coming into the fold, the Buckeyes add not just a workhorse back but also a player with leadership qualities from his time at West Virginia. This mix of experience, new talent, and strategic coaching could very well lead Ohio State to dominate ground games in the upcoming season.

As the team integrates these players, the focus will be on how they fit into the offensive scheme, manage depth, and handle the ball distribution. With a mix of power, speed, and experience, Ohio State's running back room is set to be one of the highlights of their squad in 2025.

CJ Donaldson Jr. 2024 Regular Season Highlights | 2024 Big 12 Football

Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Oregon Ducks: The long-awaited showdown is here at last

Anticipate an exhilarating college football clash this weekend! This is the game that was waited for by everyone, the #3 Oregon Ducks will play the #2 Ohio State Buckeyes. Get ready as the action begins at Autzen Stadium, Eugene Oregon on October 12th 2024 at 730 PM ET. Get your burritos and drinks ready for the game, you're not going to miss any minute of this clash on NBC.

A Brief History

The history of Ohio State University and the University of Oregon has witnessed several face-offs. In their head-to-head record Ohio State has a slight edge over Oregon. However, the most interactive contest that fans worldwide still remember vividly remains to be their trip to 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship when Ohio State earned a victory against Oregon. And now, the stakes are set, the game will be literally another piece in their storied rivalry.

The Coaches

In 2019, Ryan Day was elevated to the Buckeyes' head coach revamping OSU’s formerly rich football program. In contrast, Dan Lanning, the head coach of the Oregon Ducks managed to learn a few tricks from his strong defense during his short time as a head coach.

Players to Watch

Amongst others, Will Howard the senior quarterback at Ohio State, is worth watching. He's at the top of the list with some impressive stats: 1,248 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions this season. Keep an eye on wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and running back Quinshon Judkins too.

Even though quarterback Dylan Gabriel plays a significant role in enhancing Oregon's offense, ensuring more than 1200 yards and 10 touchdowns, it is clear that Sewell anchors the Ducks. He will play a big role in attempting to contain Ohio State's high scoring machine.

Breaking Down the Game

Offense: Rated as one of the country’s most prolific offenses, Ohio State typically scores 46 points in a span of 60 minutes. Thanks to their ability to gain yardage through carries and passes, Ohio State holds an advantage over Oregon whose average point per game is 35.

Defense: Ohio State's defense has been stellar, allowing just 6.8 points per game, the best in the nation. Oregon is also good in defense, which allows 17 points, not very low or very high, and is ranked 18th in the country.

Special teams: While both teams have dependable kickers and return units, the performance of the special teams units tilts to Ohio State's favor this season.

The Odds

The Ohio State Buckeyes are currently a 3.5-point favorite in the tilt, with the over/under standing at 53.5 points. This reflects an evenly matched game, with the brunt of the action leaning towards Ohio State.

A Personal Story

I recall the numerous friends that I watched the action-packed 2015 National Championship game with. Everyone was one the edge of the seat waiting in anticipation for the outcome. The amount of energy in the hall was very high considering how much people waited for the final snap. I will remember that day forever in the future. This weekend's game has the potential to create similar unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts

Facing off Ohio State against Oregon is no mere collision, but a conflict of rivals in which much is at stake. Whosoever you may be, whether a supporter ready to burst with fanaticism or just a person who cannot stand missing live football, this is going to be a very interesting match. Meanwhile, get your favorite foods, find a comfortable spot, and prepare yourself for the intense action lined up.