The College Football Playoff has reached its first 12-team version, culminating in a national championship game between Notre Dame and Ohio State. The matchup has generated significant excitement, especially after the first-round games held on campuses saw all higher-seeded teams winning comfortably. The subsequent quarterfinals witnessed all top seeds losing after earning a bye, adding to the unpredictability of the tournament.
The national championship game is set to take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on January 20 at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time, with Ohio State heavily favored by 8 1/2 points according to BetMGM College Football Odds. Notre Dame, the 7th seed with a 14-1 record, will face off against Ohio State, the 8th seed with a 13-2 record.
Notre Dame's journey to the championship game included victories over Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State, while Ohio State defeated Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas to secure their spot. Ohio State's strong defense and talented offensive players like QB Will Howard and receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka make them a formidable opponent.
The playoff format involved a 13-member selection committee evaluating teams over six weeks before setting the bracket on December 8. The top four seeds received automatic trips to the quarterfinals, where all four were defeated, showcasing the competitiveness of the field.
Financially, the playoff field represents a significant sum of approximately $115 million. Conferences receive $4 million for each team in the final 12, with additional payouts for teams reaching the quarterfinals and beyond. Notre Dame, as an independent team, retains the full $20 million it earned for its title-game run.
The future of the College Football Playoff may see further expansion, with discussions already underway for potential changes as early as 2026. The current playoff structure has brought new levels of excitement and competition to the college football landscape, captivating fans and players alike.
