Ohio State laid the blueprint for success in college football by overcoming significant challenges to secure its first national championship in a decade, triumphing over Notre Dame on Monday night. This victory marked a pivotal moment for the Buckeyes and showcased the resilience and determination of the team under Ryan Day’s leadership.
The journey to this title felt like a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance for Ohio State. This season was not just remarkable; it was a testament to the character of the Buckeyes, who faced and conquered numerous adversities. Observing the team throughout the season revealed a group of players who were not only skilled but also high in character, reminiscent of last year’s Michigan squad. They were a team that fans could easily rally behind.
The essence of college football shines through when a group of individuals unites to achieve a common goal. This Ohio State team exemplified that spirit. The players who chose to return to the program found fulfillment in their decision on that fateful Monday night. As someone who once played the game, witnessing this was particularly gratifying.
Here are additional insights from Ohio State’s national championship victory.
Ohio State’s journey was challenging, showcasing the advantages of a veteran team rebounding from setbacks against Michigan.
Consider the hurdles this team faced on their path to victory. There was a midseason defeat to Oregon, followed by a disappointing loss to Michigan at the close of the regular season. That particular loss remains puzzling for many Ohio State supporters.
Reflecting on the narrative surrounding the program after that setback, Ohio State managed to regroup and reaffirm its identity. Despite the loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes recognized their potential for greatness. Such resilience is not easily achieved, especially after a monumental game that had taken place just four games prior. Ohio State faced a rigorous schedule against elite teams after that defeat.
[Related: Ohio State’s Ryan Day completes long, painful climb to college football mountaintop]
Not only did Ohio State emerge victorious in each of those subsequent games, but they also did so by substantial margins. They decisively defeated Tennessee and Oregon, the latter being the only undefeated team during the regular season, and triumphed over Texas in a classic Cotton Bowl. As the national championship game approached, it seemed Ohio State would comfortably secure another win, yet they found themselves in a tight contest with Notre Dame late in the game. Ultimately, Ohio State secured the crucial score needed to clinch the championship, a victory forged through the trials of the season.
In college football today, fans are witnessing a new trend: players opting to stay in school longer. While some fans express frustration over player movement, the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) framework is proving beneficial for the sport. This shift represents a new strategy for winning national championships, emphasizing the importance of a committed, veteran team. It’s encouraging to see players like Emeka Egbuka, who not only set the all-time receptions record for Ohio State but also celebrated a championship victory.
Ohio State’s championship victory also underscores the notion that rival success serves as a powerful motivator in college football. Michigan, under Jim Harbaugh, continued to refine its program after Ohio State had set the standard. Following Michigan’s championship win last year, Ohio State responded with determination, stating, “We need to change that narrative.” And they did.
Ryan Day’s decision to relinquish playcalling duties proved beneficial.
Fans have high expectations, and this standard of excellence is a significant factor in Ohio State’s prominence. Day recognized this expectation and aimed to meet it, expressing in “Big Noon Conversations” last summer that being the head coach “isn’t for the faint of heart.” He emphasized the need for resilience and tenacity.
Moreover, Day’s success in garnering player buy-in at the end of the 2023 season was contingent on his decision to step back from offensive playcalling. Building a cohesive roster is paramount for any head coach in college football.
Day’s accomplishments in his inaugural year without offensive playcalling responsibilities speak volumes about his leadership capabilities.
Despite a challenging matchup, Notre Dame exhibited resilience.
Analyzing the game, it was evident that Ohio State held the advantage from the outset. The Buckeyes delivered an impressive performance in the first half, leaving no doubt about their dominance. Notre Dame, however, had to adjust its usual defensive strategy, as Will Howard completed his first 13 passes. It became increasingly difficult for Notre Dame to maintain man coverage against the talented Ohio State receiving corps, which included Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith, and Carnell Tate, alongside a strong running game.
Despite yielding 31 consecutive points, Notre Dame managed to narrow the gap to a one-score game, demonstrating impressive grit. While Ohio State appeared poised to score nearly 50 points in the first half, Notre Dame’s only touchdown came from an unsustainable strategy, relying heavily on Riley Leonard’s rushing. This forced Notre Dame into a pass-heavy approach, which proved to be a challenge against Ohio State’s well-prepared defense.
Ohio State’s offensive versatility made it difficult for Notre Dame to find effective defensive solutions throughout the game. When Ohio State quickly distributed the ball from Howard’s hands, they became virtually unstoppable.
Jeremiah Smith and Will Howard showcased their exceptional skills.
Identifying a wide receiver as one of the best is often challenging, given their potential to go unnoticed during games. However, when Ohio State needed Smith most, they called upon him for a critical third-and-11 play, demonstrating the trust the coaching staff placed in him. Smith’s talent is undeniable.
Howard also delivered an outstanding performance, marking his best game as a Buckeye. His efficiency and ability to maneuver within the pocket were key to the team’s success, showcasing a sense of urgency while maintaining composure throughout the game.
Notre Dame, under Marcus Freeman, is poised for future success.
Freeman has successfully elevated Notre Dame back to elite status. While Brian Kelly laid the groundwork by leading the Irish to a national championship and multiple College Football Playoff appearances, Freeman has taken the program to new heights. The determination and grit displayed by the team, especially in the national championship game, exemplify the culture he has fostered.
With a strong foundation and many talented young players returning in 2025, Notre Dame is set to remain competitive. The team is fast, physical, and ready for the challenges ahead.
Marcus Freeman has gone 33-10 as Notre Dame’s head coach, increasing the Fighting Irish’s win total in each of his three seasons as head coach. (Photo by Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
Despite past appearances in the BCS championship game and the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame has often been viewed as just outside the elite tier of teams capable of winning it all. However, after witnessing their performance on Monday night and considering the talent slated for the 2025 roster, it’s clear that Notre Dame has the potential to contend for a national championship in the near future. Freeman’s leadership has played a significant role in shaping this outlook, and the program is poised for forging moments that inspire young players to return and pursue a championship.
The College Football Playoff expansion has proven effective.
While the road to the title game may have taken time, the recent playoff format has delivered an exciting season. This year’s competition was remarkable, and it’s evident that the previous system was not as effective.
The playoff format not only achieved its intended goals but also provided thrilling games on campus and in later rounds. This approach effectively distinguishes elite teams from the rest.
This season has been a standout year for college football.
