By Adeniyi Precious 
As the 2024 college football season wraps up, there’s still no clear national champ. The Ohio State Buckeyes (13-2) are favored to win it all, taking on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (14-1) in a highly anticipated matchup. According to ESPN’s predictions, the Buckeyes have a 55.4% chance of claiming the title.
Ohio State’s offense has been the star in recent years, with standout players like C.J. Stroud, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Garrett Wilson, but this year, it’s the defense that’s taking the spotlight. Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt recently said on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd” that Ohio State has the best defense in college football, calling their front seven and secondary the toughest to beat.
Led by defensive end Jack Sawyer, linebacker Cody Simon, and safety Caleb Downs, the Buckeyes rank number one in total defense, pass defense, and scoring defense. They’re also third in rush defense and defensive efficiency. Despite their strengths, teams that managed to beat them had success running the ball, with Michigan and Oregon averaging 163.5 rushing yards per game against them, which is about 75 yards more than they usually allow.
Ohio State’s defense has been nearly impenetrable in the playoffs, giving up just 62.3 rushing yards per game against Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. On the other hand, Notre Dame has one of the top rushing attacks, ranking 14th in the country, but their rushing numbers have dropped during the playoffs.
The Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish will face off on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday.