Ohio State edges past Notre Dame to secure their first national title since 2014

The Ohio State University Buckeyes established an early lead and subsequently withstood a late rally from the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, securing a 34-23 victory in the US college football national championship game held in Atlanta, Georgia, on Monday.

This victory marked the Buckeyes' ninth national championship and their first since 2014, a feat that seemed improbable after their loss to their long-standing rivals, Michigan, in November, which resulted in their eighth seed in the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff this season.

Following Notre Dame's initial 75-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown, Ohio State quickly took control of the game. Quarterback Will Howard connected with Jeremiah Smith for an eight-yard touchdown pass, equalizing the score at 7-7.

The Buckeyes extended their lead to 31-7, fueled by three touchdowns from Quinshon Judkins and a 46-yard field goal by Jayden Fielding.

Notre Dame added some drama with two touchdowns, as quarterback Riley Leonard threw scoring passes of 34 and 30 yards to Jaden Greathouse. Both touchdowns were followed by successful two-point conversions, narrowing the gap to 31-23 with 4:15 left on the clock.

In response, the Buckeyes executed a crucial play, with Howard finding Smith for a 56-yard pass along the right sideline, leading to a drive that concluded with a 33-yard field goal from Fielding, effectively securing the victory with just 26 seconds remaining.

Howard demonstrated remarkable efficiency, completing 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards, while Judkins rushed for 100 yards, scoring touchdowns of 34 and 30 yards, along with a six-yard touchdown reception.

The loss left Notre Dame still pursuing their 14th national title, a quest that has eluded them since 1988.