Ohio State Claims First 12-Team Playoff Title, Ryan Day's First Championship

Jan 21, 2025, 04:15 AM

Ohio State University clinched the College Football Playoff national championship, defeating Notre Dame 34-23 in Atlanta. The victory marks Ohio State's first national title since 2014 and their ninth overall, as well as the first championship of the inaugural 12-team playoff. The Buckeyes, led by quarterback Will Howard, who threw for 231 yards and two touchdowns, and running back Quinshon Judkins, who rushed for 100 yards and scored three times, dominated early in the game. Ohio State scored on its first five possessions, including four consecutive touchdowns, before Notre Dame mounted a late comeback attempt. Despite the Irish's efforts, Ohio State sealed the win with a crucial 56-yard pass from Howard to receiver Jeremiah Smith late in the game. This championship victory represents a redemption story for Ohio State and is the first national title for coach Ryan Day.