Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 1/20/2025 7:30 PM EST

We have your Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Ohio State Buckeyes hit the road to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Ohio State Buckeyes -395 (DraftKings) / Notre Dame Fighting Irish +328 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: 9.5 - Ohio State Buckeyes -109 (BetRivers) / Notre Dame Fighting Irish -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 46.5 - Under -115 (DraftKings) / 45.5 - Over -109 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 1/20/2025
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA)
TV: ESPN

Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Preview

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish prepare to clash in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Both teams have navigated a challenging path to reach this pinnacle, with Ohio State emerging as a formidable force after overcoming a series of high-stakes matchups against Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. The Buckeyes, under the guidance of coach Ryan Day, have demonstrated a potent combination of offensive firepower and defensive resilience, making them a formidable opponent for any team.

Ohio State's offense is spearheaded by quarterback Will Howard, who has shown remarkable poise and skill throughout the playoffs. Despite a hiccup against Michigan earlier in the season, Howard has rebounded impressively, supported by a talented receiving corps led by freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith and the experienced Emeka Egbuka. The Buckeyes' ground game is equally potent, with running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins providing a dynamic one-two punch that has kept defenses on their heels.

Defensively, Ohio State boasts a robust unit anchored by standout edge rushers Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau. Their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks has been a key factor in the Buckeyes' success, complemented by a secondary led by the versatile Caleb Downs. This defensive prowess will be crucial as they face a Notre Dame team known for its resilience and strategic execution.

Notre Dame, under the leadership of coach Marcus Freeman, has defied the odds to reach the championship game. The Fighting Irish have overcome significant injuries and an early-season setback against Northern Illinois to string together an impressive 13-game winning streak. Quarterback Riley Leonard, a dual-threat playmaker, has been instrumental in their success, supported by a strong running game led by Jeremiyah Love. Despite battling a knee issue, Love has been a game-changer for the Irish, showcasing his ability to break open games with explosive runs.

The Irish defense, characterized by its tenacity and discipline, will be tasked with containing Ohio State's high-octane offense. Notre Dame's secondary, featuring standout players like Xavier Watts and Leonard Moore, has been exceptional in pass coverage, allowing the lowest completion percentage in the nation. Their ability to disrupt Ohio State's passing game will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this championship clash.

As these two storied programs prepare to meet on the grand stage of the national championship, fans can expect a contest filled with intensity, strategic battles, and moments of brilliance. With both teams eager to end their respective title droughts, the stakes could not be higher, setting the stage for an unforgettable encounter in Atlanta.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pick: Total Points Over

The upcoming College Football Playoff National Championship between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish promises to be a high-scoring affair, making the over on the total points a compelling pick. Both teams have demonstrated offensive prowess throughout the season and the playoffs, setting the stage for a potentially explosive matchup.

Ohio State's offense has been a juggernaut, led by quarterback Will Howard, who has orchestrated a dynamic passing attack. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has been a revelation, amassing 293 yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs, despite a quiet game against Texas. Alongside Smith, Emeka Egbuka and the potent running back duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins provide the Buckeyes with multiple avenues to score. Ohio State's ability to adapt and exploit defensive weaknesses has been evident, as they have consistently put up significant points against formidable opponents like Oregon and Texas.

On the other side, Notre Dame's offense, spearheaded by dual-threat quarterback Riley Leonard, has shown resilience and adaptability. Leonard's ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, combined with the explosive running of Jeremiyah Love, who has been a game-changer despite injury concerns, adds layers to the Irish's offensive strategy. Notre Dame's recent performances, including a thrilling 27-24 victory over Penn State, highlight their capability to engage in high-scoring contests.

Defensively, while both teams boast strong units, the offensive firepower on display suggests that this championship game could see both teams trading scores. Ohio State's defense, led by standout edge rushers Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, will face a stern test against Notre Dame's balanced attack. Similarly, Notre Dame's secondary, despite its excellence, will be challenged by Ohio State's multifaceted offense.

Given the offensive talent and strategic acumen of both teams, the potential for a high-scoring game is significant. The Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish have shown they can score in bunches, and with the national championship on the line, expect both teams to pull out all the stops. This sets the stage for a thrilling encounter that could easily surpass the projected total points, making the over a strong pick for this championship clash.

Ohio State Buckeyes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish Top Player Prop Picks

Will Howard Over 240.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Will Howard has been a pivotal force in Ohio State's offensive success throughout the playoffs, showcasing his ability to lead a dynamic passing attack. Despite a challenging matchup against Texas, Howard has consistently demonstrated his prowess, supported by a talented receiving corps that includes freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith and the experienced Emeka Egbuka. With Notre Dame's defense focusing on containing Ohio State's multifaceted offense, Howard's ability to exploit defensive gaps and connect with his receivers will be crucial. Given Ohio State's offensive firepower and Howard's track record, the over on 240.5 passing yards is a compelling pick.

Riley Leonard Under 167.5 Passing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Riley Leonard, Notre Dame's dual-threat quarterback, has been instrumental in the team's success, primarily through his ability to make plays with his legs. While Leonard has shown flashes of brilliance in the passing game, his strength lies in his rushing ability, which has been a key component of Notre Dame's offensive strategy. Facing a formidable Ohio State defense led by standout edge rushers Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, Leonard may find it challenging to consistently connect through the air. With Notre Dame likely to rely more on its ground game, the under on 167.5 passing yards for Leonard appears to be a prudent choice.

Jeremiyah Love Over 100.5 Rushing Yards -110 (DraftKings)

Jeremiyah Love has been a game-changer for Notre Dame, showcasing his explosive running ability despite battling a knee issue. As the focal point of Notre Dame's ground attack, Love has been instrumental in the team's 13-game winning streak, consistently breaking open games with his dynamic runs. Against an Ohio State defense that has been stout but not impenetrable, Love's ability to find gaps and exploit them will be crucial. Given his recent performances and the importance of the run game in Notre Dame's strategy, the over on 100.5 rushing yards for Love is a strong pick.

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