Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor
In a thrilling finale to the 2024 college football season, the Ohio State Buckeyes secured their ninth national championship title by defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-23 Jan. 20. This crucial game, played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, marked Ohio State’s first national championship since 2014. What was particularly significant about the contest is that it occurred in the inaugural year of the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format.
Entering the playoffs as the No. 8 seed with a 13-2 record, Ohio State faced notable opponents, including a clutch 28-14 victory over Texas in the Playoff Semifinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. The Buckeyes’ path to the title was different than most, being the first national champions to have lost two regular-season games, highlighting their ability to triumph over obstacles.
In the championship game, Ohio State controlled the early possessions, scoring touchdowns on each of their first four tries while also adding a field goal on their fifth. Led by quarterback Will Howard and running back Quinshon Judkins, the Buckeyes jumped to a 31-7 lead by the middle of the third quarter. Judkins, a transfer from Mississippi, racked up 100 yards on just 11 carries, scoring three touchdowns, including an insane 70-yard run.
However, Notre Dame refused to back down. Two quick touchdowns and two successful two-point conversions brought the Fighting Irish within eight points late in the fourth quarter. As tension filled the stadium, legendary former Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz was shown on the big screen, giving his team a thumbs-up and sending energy through the crowd. But, ultimately, Notre Dame’s revival fell short when Jeremiah Smith’s highlight catch allowed Ohio State to retake control and crush their opponent’s momentum.
Will Howard, a Kansas State transfer, was a gem for the Buckeyes throughout the playoffs and shined in the championship game. He completed 13 straight passes at the start of the contest, finishing the night with 231 passing yards and two touchdowns. While his final stats were impressive, it was his calm demeanor and ability to deliver under pressure that will be remembered. Jeremiah Smith, the team’s standout receiver, also came through when it mattered most, turning a relatively quiet night into one for the ages with a pivotal catch.
The addition of Quinshon Judkins via the transfer portal also highlighted Ohio State’s strategic roster building. His physical play style, combined with his playmaking ability, gave the Buckeyes a big advantage that opposing defenses struggled to contain throughout the playoffs.
Although they had multiple clutch plays, Ohio State’s dominance extended far beyond that. The Buckeyes were able to outgain Notre Dame 445 yards to 308 and punted just once all evening. Howard’s efficiency and the offensive line’s control over the game were critical factors in the Buckeyes’ success.
Postgame, Notre Dame’s head coach Marcus Freeman faced some tough questions, including one about the decision to attempt a fake punt that failed and a missed field goal attempt off the left upright. There were great plays made on both ends of the field, and though the Irish gave a valiant effort, especially in the fourth quarter, they simply just couldn’t match Ohio State’s execution.
Although they came up short in the National Championship, Notre Dame has plenty to be proud of. Finishing the season with an impressive 14-2 record, the Fighting Irish defeated multiple top-tier teams on their journey to the title game. Reaching this stage is a dream for most players, and for Notre Dame, it’s a testament to their grit and determination. With their eyes set on the future, the Fighting Irish can take pride in this remarkable season while also aiming to change the outcome the next time they have the opportunity to do so.
Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu
