The Ohio State University Buckeyes and University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish squared off for the historic game of the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship, according to athlonsports.com. In addition to having two strong teams, this year’s championship demonstrates the revolutionary effect of the 12-team playoff format expansion, which began this year as a way to increase competition and open up new opportunities for teams across the United States (US).
Since taking over the program in 2019, head coach Mr. Ryan Day has built a reputation for offensive creativity and consistency. Entering the playoffs as the number eight seed, the Buckeyes exceeded expectations with a series of victories, including a crucial win against the University of Texas Longhorns, according to apnews.com. This ability to perform under pressure and deliver in critical moments highlights the strength and depth of their program.
On the other hand, head coach Mr. Marcus Freeman’s vision and discipline are responsible for Notre Dame’s run to the championship. Mr. Freeman helped guide the Fighting Irish to the championship in 2013, when he was assistant coach. Since becoming the head coach in 2022, Mr. Freeman made history as the first Asian and Black man to reach the college football finals, according to www.nbcnews.com. He has aimed to built a team based on mental toughness and defensive sturdiness, according to ncronline.org. With a dramatic victory over Penn State, in the Orange Bowl semifinal, the Fighting Irish cemented their spot on the biggest platform in college sports.
The expanded CFP format, which debuted in the 2024-2025 season, reshaped the championship landscape. With the inclusion of 12 teams, the playoffs now grant automatic bids to the five highest-ranked conference champions and reserves seven spots for “deserving” teams. This structure ensures a balance between rewarding conference success and providing opportunities for exceptional teams outside the conference championship winners. Additionally, the introduction of first-round byes for the top four conference champions and home-field advantage for seeds five through eight has added new dimensions of strategy and excitement, according to collegefootballplayoff.com. Anticipation was high for the National Championship as fans got ready for the historic matchup. Ms. Ellen Spillane, Upper School Math Teacher and Notre Dame alumna, shared her perspective on the key to a Notre Dame victory.
“Notre Dame has been resilient all season,” Ms. Spillane said. “I think this resilience and determination, along with a desire to prove themselves, will be a motivating factor in helping them find success on the field. Coach Freeman has the drive, charisma, and character to help Notre Dame bring home a win. One of the biggest differences I’ve seen is that Coach Freeman appears to have the support of all of the students, alumni, and Irish fans. He has demonstrated leadership and fostered a sense of camaraderie and community among the team.”
As Ohio State and Notre Dame prepared for the championship clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, fans eagerly anticipated a matchup between the two teams. For the Buckeyes, this was a chance to cap off a season defined by resilience and key victories, including their stunning upset over the Longhorns. Meanwhile, the Fighting Irish aim to solidify their legacy by capturing their first national title since 1988, adding even more significance to an already historic showdown, according to www.sportingnews.com.
Ultimately, the Ohio State Buckeyes claimed the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-23. The game was competitive throughout, with both teams showcasing skill and determination. In the final quarter, Ohio State pulled ahead with a decisive offensive drive led by their quarterback, Mr. Will Howard, according to wvnstv.com.
Featured Image by Audrey Bakker ’26
