Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Betting Predictions: 2025 College Football Championship
The College Football Playoff National Championship will be the grand finale of this year’s season, and who is going head to head? The matchup is Ohio State against Notre Dame—the Buckeyes vs. the Fighting Irish, and fans are gearing up for the big game. Okay, it’s not THE big game; that’s the Super Bowl. But it’s the Super Bowl of college football, and both teams are steeped in traditions and have storied histories, so it’ll be a matchup to watch.
When Is It All Going Down? On Monday, Jan. 20, at 7:30 p.m. ET in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, it’s airing on ESPN.
Both fans and bettors are prepping for a game against two university titans. If you are going to bet on this one, there are a few things that you need to know, and a lot of predictions and commentary milling about the sports world, so we are gonna break down everything you should be aware of—and that means all of your betting options and opportunities!
Popular Bets You Can Make on the Game
There are so many ways to bet on the college championship—from picking the winner to predicting specific game details like total points scored. First up, we’ll go over what the most common bet types are and what they mean if you’re wagering on the showdown!
Moneyline Bets
Betting the moneyline is as simple as it gets—you’re just putting money on which team will win, and the point difference doesn’t matter. You just pick either Ohio State or Notre Dame to win the championship, easy peasy!
Current Odds
As of Jan. 14, 2025, the Moneyline odds for the championship game are as follows:
Ohio State
Notre Dame
-385
+300
Ohio State heads into the game as the favorite with odds of -410, and Notre Dame is the underdog at +285. Bettors backing the Buckeyes would need to bet $410 to win $100, while a $100 bet on Notre Dame could win them $285 if they manage to pull off the upset.
Factors Influencing the Moneyline
There are always things that have an influence (major or minor) on the moneyline, and they include:
- Recent Form: Ohio State has been absolutely dominating this season—their record is super strong, and they’ve had impressive victories, including a big win over Texas. Notre Dame wasn’t even expected to make it, but the team proved predictions wrong and has been on a winning streak since September.
- Injuries: Both teams have managed to stay relatively healthy leading up to the championship game, and as of now there have been no major injuries reported that could impact their performance on the gridiron.
- Historical Performance: Ohio State has a solid edge in head-to-head matchups against Notre Dame—they’ve won six of the last meetings dating all the way back to 1995.
Point Spread Bets
For point spread bets, you’re betting on the margin of victory, which means that the favorite needs to win by more than the specified points to cover the spread, and the underdog covers by winning outright or losing by fewer points than the spread.
Current Spread Details
Ohio State is favored by 8.5 points. To cover, they need to win by at least 9 points. If Notre Dame loses by 8 or fewer—or wins outright—they’ll cover the spread.
Currently, the exact point spread for the championship game is:
Ohio State
Notre Dame
-8.5
+8.5
This means that Ohio State has to win by at least 10 points to cover the spread, and Notre Dame covers if they win outright or lose by 9 points or less.
Main Considerations for Spread Bets
Think about the following factors if you’re betting on the spread:
- Offensive Capabilities: Ohio State’s offense, which is led by quarterback Will Howard, has been really efficient and averaging substantial points every game. Notre Dame’s offense, with quarterback Riley Leonard, has also been really productive, and this makes the spread an important factor to take into consideration.
- Defensive Strengths: Ohio State’s defense is among the nation’s best—it allows minimal points during games. Notre Dame’s defense has been opportunistic, as it’s been forcing turnovers and maintaining a solid red-zone efficiency.
- Game Pace and Style: Ohio State tends to control the game’s pace with a balanced and coordinated attack, while Notre Dame’s adaptability might surprise and influence the game’s flow and, you know what that means—the point spread outcome.
Spread bets all hinge on team strengths and weaknesses. Ohio State has one of the best defenses in the country, but Notre Dame’s balanced offense could make it harder for the Buckeyes to win by a bigger margin.
Over/Under (Totals) Bets
An Over/Under bet is the total combined points that are scored by both teams, and bettors wager on whether the total points will be over or under a predetermined number that is set by the sportsbook.
Current Over/Under
The total for the championship game is now set at 45.5 points. Bettors who are choosing the over anticipate a combined score of 46 points or more, and those who pick the under are expecting 45 points or less.
Historical Scoring Trends
History is important here, as it tends to repeat itself! Consider the following if you’re going with an over/under bet:
- Ohio State: In recent championship games, Ohio State has had both high-scoring and solid defensive battles, which show just how adaptable their game strategies are.
- Notre Dame: Notre Dame’s championship appearances have also varied—some games had really strong offensive outputs, and others were ruled by defensive play.
Insights on Offensive and Defensive Stats
With Ohio State’s defense leading the nation in points allowed and Notre Dame’s efficiency in the red zone, the matchup is leaning toward a lower total. Historical trends from past championship games also suggest a cautious approach to totals betting.
- Ohio State: Offensively, the Buckeyes have been nothing short of amazing, and they are averaging over 40 points per game. Defensively, they have been rigid, only allowing about 14 points per game, and this is evidence of a balanced team that is capable of both scoring and preventing points.
- Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish offense has been effective, averaging around 35 points per game. Their defense has been solid, conceding approximately 17 points per game, which shows they have the ability to control the game’s pace.
Prop Bets for Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
If you don’t want to do the same old, same old bets and want to get a little more creative, prop bets are a really fun alternative! These are the bets that let you predict individual or team performances, as well as other game-specific outcomes.
Player Prop Bets
Player prop bets focus on the individual performances of the teams and are a good bet for those who know all about the main players. Below is a list of some of the prop bets for Ohio State vs. Notre Dame National Championship game:
- Analysis of each team’s offensive efficiency and explosive play potential.
- Special Prop Bets
- Coin toss result.
- Will the game go into overtime?
- Total field goals made.
– Will Howard (Ohio State Quarterback): Passing Yards Over/Under: 247.5 yards; Passing Touchdowns Over/Under: 1.5 touchdowns
– Dillon Gabriel (Notre Dame Quarterback): Passing Yards Over/Under: 248.5 yards; Passing Touchdowns Over/Under: 1.5 touchdowns
– TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State Running Back): Rushing Yards Over/Under: 55.5 yards; Rushing + Receiving Yards Over/Under: 85.5 yards
– Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State Running Back): Rushing Yards Over/Under: 49.5 yards; Rushing + Receiving Yards Over/Under: 60.5 yards
– Jordan James (Notre Dame Running Back): Rushing Yards Over/Under: 87.5 yards
– Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State Wide Receiver): Receptions Over/Under: 4.5 receptions; Receiving Yards Over/Under: 72.5 yards
– Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State Wide Receiver): Receptions Over/Under: 4.5 receptions; Receiving Yards Over/Under: 60.5 yards
– Tez Johnson (Notre Dame Wide Receiver): Receptions Over/Under: 6.5 receptions; Receiving Yards Over/Under: 74.5 yards
– Traeshon Holden (Notre Dame Wide Receiver): Receptions Over/Under: 3.5 receptions; Receiving Yards Over/Under: 32.5 yards
– Terrance Ferguson (Notre Dame Tight End): Receptions Over/Under: 3.5 receptions; Receiving Yards Over/Under: 34.5 yards
– Total Points Scored by Ohio State: Over/Under: 27.5 points
– Total Points Scored by Notre Dame: Over/Under: 20.5 points
– First Team to Score: Ohio State: -150; Notre Dame: +120
– Longest Touchdown Scored: Over/Under: 54.5 yards
– The Outcome of the First Offensive Play from Scrimmage: Run Play: -130; Pass Play: +100
– Will the Game Go to Overtime?: Yes: +900; No: -2000
– The Total Field Goals Made in the Game: Over/Under: 3.5 field goals
– Bet on which team will win the coin toss
Don’t forget that prop bet lines can and do fluctuate as game day nears, so you should always check what the latest odds are with your sportsbook!
Statistical Breakdown of the Teams
Now it’s time to crunch some numbers! Let’s see what Ohio State and Notre Dame bring to the field with some stats so we can get a better idea of what could decide the championship game!
Ohio State
Ohio State has been a force to be reckoned with this season with an offense and a defense that’s undoubtedly one of the best in the country. What makes the Buckeyes so formidable? Ohio State has a stellar record, with their only blemish being a late-season loss. They rebounded with a commanding 28-14 win over Texas to reach the title game.
- Season Performance: The Buckeyes have had a strong season with a 13-2 record. They secured big wins against teams like Oregon and Texas, demonstrating their ability to perform in high-stakes games. But they faced a narrow loss to Michigan, which was a bitter pill to swallow for the team and its fans.
- Offensive Strengths: Ohio State’s offense has been super impressive—they’ve averaged 37.8 points per game and been effective both in the air and on the ground, with quarterback Will Howard leading the passing attack and running backs like TreVeyon Henderson contributing a ton to the rushing game—the Buckeyes average impressive numbers in both rushing and passing yards.
- Defensive Capabilities: Defensively, the Buckeyes have been formidable, allowing only 10.3 points per game. Their defense has been adept at limiting both rushing and passing yards, and that makes it hard for opponents to find any kind of an offensive rhythm. Ohio State’s defense is their hallmark—they lead the nation in points allowed, and that makes them a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Notre Dame
Notre Dame is no slouch—they’ve impressed all season with consistent performances and a knack for coming through in clutch moments. Their performance on both offense and defense makes them a worthy adversary for the title.
- Season Performance: The Fighting Irish have had an impressive run—nearly flawless—with a 14-1 record, securing key victories, including a win over Penn State in the Orange Bowl. They are a resilient team and can perform under pressure.
- Offensive Strengths: Notre Dame’s offense has been great, and they are averaging 35 points per game. Quarterback Riley Leonard has been instrumental in orchestrating the offense, and they have a measured attack that keeps defenses on their toes.
- Defensive Strengths: Defensively, Notre Dame has been solid, allowing approximately 11.6 points per game. They excel in forcing turnovers and have a strong red-zone defense, which makes it tough for opponents to capitalize on any scoring opportunities. Notre Dame’s defense excels at forcing turnovers and holding opponents in the red zone-they’re a hard team to break down.
Head-to-Head Comparison
When the two programs face off on the field, it’s not only about the current season—it’s also about history, rivalry, and pride. Below is how Ohio State and Notre Dame stack up against each other and what past matchups could tell us about the championship game!
- Historical Matchups: Historically, Ohio State has had the upper hand in recent encounters with Notre Dame. As we noted earlier, they have won the last six meetings since 1995.
- Recent Games and Common Opponents: Both teams have been up against top-tier opponents this season and have showcased their strengths in different ways. Ohio State has demonstrated a high-powered offense and a stingy defense, and Notre Dame has shown resilience and that they can win close games in a squeaker.
- Strengths and Weaknesses: Ohio State’s strength lies in their steady offense and strong defense, and that makes them a really well-rounded team. Notre Dame has an advantage in their efficiency and the ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes, particularly via forced turnovers. But both teams have areas to watch out for; with Ohio State, it’s being consistent, and for Notre Dame, it’s making sure that their offense can keep up with the higher-scoring team.
Our Betting Predictions
Want to know what we think? If you’re reading this, you probably do! We know that Ohio State is coming in as the favorite, and Notre Dame is in the underdog role, so the matchup has a few possible outcomes that are all worth considering. Next up, we take a close look at who we think is likely to win, whether the spread will hold up, and what to expect in terms of scoring!
Ohio State enters the game as the heavy favorite, and it’s super easy to see why. The Buckeyes have bragging rights to a defense that has been nothing short of amazing and has only allowed 10.3 points per game this season. Add to that an offense that’s helmed by quarterback Will Howard, who has proven himself over and over when under pressure, and you have a team that knows how to win in big moments. Their ability to control both the tempo and physicality of a game makes them really hard to beat.
That being said. Notre Dame isn’t a team to underestimate or sleep on. They’ve built their success on being steady, thanks to an efficient offense that is powered by quarterback Riley Leonard and a defense that’s been opportunistic and forced turnovers at critical times. They’ve also shown that they can hang tough against elite teams, and that makes them a dangerous opponent even while they’re considered the underdog.
So although Ohio State has the upper hand on paper, Notre Dame’s grit and how they are able to capitalize on mistakes could make this game closer than a lot of people are expecting. Still, the edge goes to Ohio State due to their consistent performances against the best competition.
The point spread for this game is set at 9.5 points in favor of Ohio State, which means that the Buckeyes have to win by at least 10 points to cover the spread, and Notre Dame can cover by either winning outright or losing by fewer than 10.
Ohio State’s defensive dominance could certainly help them cover, especially if they can stifle Notre Dame’s offensive drives and turn turnovers into points. Their recent 28-14 win over Texas showed just how suffocating their defense can be. And on the offensive side, Will Howard has the weapons to pile up points quickly, which could make a double-digit win entirely feasible.
But Notre Dame absolutely thrives in tight games. They’ve shown resilience all season long, pulling out wins in situations where other teams wouldn’t come out on top. They can adapt on the fly and stay competitive, and that means that they could easily keep the game within the spread, even if they don’t pull off the upset.
If you are betting on the matchup, your decision will come down to whether you trust Ohio State to assert its dominance or believe Notre Dame can grind out another close contest. Ohio State covering the spread seems likely, but it’s far from a lock!
The over/under for this game is set at 45.5 points. Both teams have outstanding defenses, which suggests that scoring opportunities might be few and far between. Ohio State allows an average of only 10.3 points per game, and Notre Dame isn’t far behind, giving up only 11.6 points per game. The numbers point to a game where points might be hard to come by.
Offensively, Ohio State averages 37.8 points per game, largely thanks to their steady attack of passing and rushing. Meanwhile, Notre Dame puts up around 35 points per game with a similar level of offensive efficiency. If both teams play to their averages, the over would hit—but it’s not that simple.
The game is being played in the controlled environment of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, so weather won’t be a factor, but the stakes and defensive prowess of both teams suggest a slower pace, less explosive plays, and a grind-it-out kind of game. This means that we are leaning toward the under being the safer choice, especially if Ohio State’s defense dictates the pace of the game.
Betting Tips for the Championship
We think that putting money on a game as big as Ohio State vs. Notre Dame deserves more than the same old advice, and we are going to give you the best tips for betting on the championship!
- Live Betting Isn’t Just Reacting—It’s Anticipating – Most people approach live betting like they’re chasing the action, but the real edge is staying one step ahead. If Notre Dame’s running game starts carving up Ohio State’s defense, think about how that might impact the second-half point totals or player props for rushing yards. The best live bettors aren’t just watching—they’re predicting what comes next.
- Bankroll Management – You should treat your betting budget like a coach treats their game-day playbook. Decide ahead of time how much money you’re willing to spend, and don’t stray from that number no matter how tempted you are. You aren’t being overly cautious; you’re just staying in the game. It doesn’t matter if your budget is $100 or $1000–dividing it up into smaller bets (rather than going all-in on one) will keep things fun and give you more chances to win.
- Informed Betting – Betting without preparation is like throwing a Hail Mary on the very first play. Look at what the numbers say—Ohio State’s defense allows only 10.3 points per game, and Notre Dame is known for creating turnovers. Use the data to make your wagers! Ohio State’s defensive strength might make the under on Notre Dame’s points a smarter bet. Research trends, injuries, and even weather (though the dome in Atlanta neutralizes that factor this time). Knowledge is what separates strategic bettors from those who only rely on luck.
- Live Betting Opportunities – Live betting is where things get really exciting—you can change your bets as the game is happening. The trick here is to watch for any shifts in momentum. If Ohio State starts out strong with a couple of quick touchdowns, you might want to jump on a live spread that leans in their favor. On the other hand, if Notre Dame’s defense clamps down after a shaky start, a live bet on them covering the spread could be the smartest move.
- Don’t Just Follow the Trends – Yes, stats and trends matter, but blindly riding them isn’t always the best move. If Ohio State’s insane defensive record makes the under feel like a sure thing, but Notre Dame’s offense gets hot, that narrative changes in a heartbeat. Look for the scenarios where the numbers don’t tell the whole story because betting is as much about finding the exceptions as it is following the rules.
- Prop Bets Can Pop Off – Championship games usually have a few chaotic moments—breakout stars, strange calls, or game-changing plays. This is where prop bets can pop off. Of course, you can bet on passing yards or touchdowns, but don’t dismiss the props! They are some of the most fun—and rewarding—bets of the night.
Conclusion: Buckeye-ing for Glory or Irish You Luck?
Whether you are “Cheer, cheering, for old Notre Dame / Wake up the echoes cheering her name” or listening to “Hang on Sloopy” on repeat to honor the Ohio State Buckeyes, the college football championship game is sure to be an exciting send-off.
As the big championship game inches closer, below are the main betting opportunities to keep front of mind:
- Moneyline: Ohio State is favored at -410, and Notre Dame is entering as the underdog at +285. If you’re looking for a higher payout, a bet on Notre Dame could really be worth considering.
- Point Spread: Ohio State is an 8.5-point favorite. If you believe the game will be tightly contested, Notre Dame covering the spread may be a viable option.
- Over/Under: With the total set at 45.5 points, both teams’ defensive strengths suggest that this could be a lower-scoring game, which makes the Under a really strong contender bet-wise.
- Prop Bets: From player and team performances to fun wagers like the coin toss or total field goals made, prop bets give bettors a variety of choices.
No matter how you choose to bet, remember to always stay within your limits and approach the game with a solid balance of strategy and fun. Betting responsibly is always the name of the game!
There are competitive odds available across various football betting apps, so take the time to explore all of your options that are out there and enjoy the final showdown of the college football season!
