Ohio State defeats Notre Dame in a dramatic moment that will stay with fans forever.
Did that pass feel like it hung in the air for seven weeks? Or maybe even 10 years? For Ohio State supporters, it’s a debate they’ll treasure forever.
Here, we will cover the highlights and records from this unforgettable victory.
A Dramatic Turn of Events as Ohio Defeats Notre Dame
Ohio State’s road to the championship wasn’t always smooth. Just seven weeks ago, Michigan handed Ohio State a 13-10 loss.
Many questioned Ryan Day’s future as head coach after the defeat. Fast forward to Monday night, and Day’s leadership paid off with a stunning national title victory.
“It’s a great story about a bunch of guys who overcame tough situations,” Day said after the game. “When many counted us out, they just kept fighting.”
In the end, it was Will Howard who led the charge. The transfer quarterback from Kansas State threw for 231 yards and two touchdowns.
But his 56-yard pass to Jeremiah Smith late in the fourth quarter helped Ohio State defeat Notre Dame and seal the victory.
Ohio State’s Defense: Holding Strong When It Mattered Most
Despite a strong start by Ohio State, Notre Dame made a furious comeback.
Trailing 31-7, the Fighting Irish scored two touchdowns and two 2-point conversions, narrowing the gap to just eight points. However, Ohio State’s defense held firm in the final minutes.
“Ohio State’s defense stepped up when it mattered most,” said Day. “Even though Notre Dame fought hard, our guys didn’t back down.”
Ohio State’s defense outgained Notre Dame 445 to 308 yards, showing why they are one of the most dominant teams in college football.
Howard’s Perfect Pass Seals the Win
The key play came when Howard launched the game-clinching pass to Smith.
With the game on the line, Howard dropped a perfect 56-yard pass into Smith’s hands, effectively ending any hopes of a Notre Dame comeback.
“We were in man coverage, and I just let it loose, hoping he’d make a play,” Howard said.
The connection between Howard and Smith was a symbol of the trust and confidence the team had built over the season.
Ohio State kicker Jayden Fielding then sealed the win with a successful field goal, sparking celebrations among Buckeye fans in the stadium and across the country.
The Big Ten Dominates Again: Ohio State’s Historic Win
This victory marked the first time since 1942 that the Big Ten Conference has taken back-to-back national titles.
With Michigan winning the championship last year, Ohio State’s win adds another chapter to the conference’s storied history.
The Buckeyes outperformed Notre Dame in nearly every aspect of the game. They dominated early, scoring on their first four possessions.
Quinshon Judkins, a standout transfer from Mississippi, rushed for over 100 yards and three touchdowns, helping to set the tone. Ohio State punted just once all night and never looked back after taking a commanding lead.
Ohio State Defeats Notre Dame: Ryan’s Big Win
For Coach Ryan Day, this victory is a career-defining achievement. After years of near-misses, including a tough loss to Michigan, Day led Ohio State to its first national title in a decade.
He joins a prestigious list of Buckeye coaches who have won national championships, including Urban Meyer and Jim Tressel.
“This one’s special,” Day said. “It was a team effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of these guys.”
Ohio State defeats Notre Dame in a game that will be remembered for years to come.
The Buckeyes, led by Howard and a fierce defense, proved their resilience and skill, earning their place among college football’s elite.
