Following kicker Jaden Fielding’s field goal to stretch Ohio State lead to 11, the Buckeyes (14-2, 7-2 Big Ten) sideline celebrated in a frenzy, understanding that they were closing in on a national championship title against Notre Dame (14-2).
The party, filled with pink and yellow confetti, commenced 27 seconds later as the Buckeyes secured its first title since 2014, winning 34-23, its ninth championship in program history.
OSU’s second-quarter performance was the backbone of its win. The team dropped 21 straight points, led 21-7 at halftime and scored 10 more points right after the break. They led 31-7 halfway through the third behind running back Quinshon Judkins three touchdowns.
The Fighting Irish gained strength as the game continued, though, scoring 16 points in the second half and making it a one-possession game after Greathouse’s one-handed touchdown grab with less than five minutes remaining.
Notre Dame was one stop away from getting the ball back, forcing the Buckeyes into 3rd and 11, but quarterback Will Howard connected with wideout Jeremiah Smith on a go-ball route to give them a first down and lead to Fielding’s field goal.
Howard was named game MVP, throwing for 231 yards on 17-21 passes for two touchdowns and 57 rushing yards.
The Buckeyes’ road to the top wasn’t easy. They beat No. 7 Tennessee, No. 1 Oregon (which they lost to during the regular season) and No. 3 Texas. The victory punches coach Ryan Day’s ticket into a prestigious room of coaches who have won a championship at Ohio State: Urban Meyer, Jim Tressel, Woody Hayes and Paul Brown.
