The Buckeyes’ Path to Atonement via Spectacular Plays

The fight song reverberated, the confetti dropped, and Ohio State regained its position as the top collegiate football team. This was an unlikely outcome less than two months ago. Following yet another heartbreaking defeat to Michigan, the Buckeyes were in shock, and supporters began to wonder if Ryan Day’s squad would ever bounce back. However, Ohio State dispelled all skepticism on Monday night in the College Football Playoff final game, defeating Notre Dame 34-23 to win their ninth national championship and their first since 2014.

This was no ordinary run for the title. Champions had to meet higher standards than ever before in the 12-team playoffs, which were expanded for the first time this year. The Buckeyes had to make their way through four postseason games.

Before aiming for Notre Dame, they defeated Tennessee, exacted revenge for a regular-season defeat to Oregon, and outlasted Texas. It was evident by Monday’s final whistle that Ohio State had earned this victory the hard way.

Will Howard, a senior quarterback who transferred from Kansas State and played like a man on a mission, was instrumental in the victory. Howard finished 17 of 21 for 231 yards and two touchdowns to start the game with a playoff record with 13 consecutive completions. His ability to analyze one of the best pass defenses in the country and remain composed under duress was nothing short of brilliant.

O-H WHAT A NIGHT.#CFBPlayoffs • #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/MHhcsdkd18

— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 21, 2025

It wasn’t a one-man show, though. Quinshon Judkins, a running back, dominated with three touchdowns, 21 receiving yards, and 100 rushing yards.

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