The inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff has culminated in a national championship showdown featuring Notre Dame and a heavily favored Ohio State squad.
This highly anticipated clash follows debates about whether the CFP selection committee made the right calls. For the first time, first-round games were hosted on college campuses, with the action later moving to bowl venues for the quarterfinals and semifinals. The higher-seeded teams cruised to victory in the opening round, but the quarterfinals flipped the script, as all four top seeds fell despite their first-round byes.
Now, after 10 games stretching back to December 20, only one remains to determine the champion. Let’s explore the College Football National Championship Odds.
Below are the odds from three of the best College Football Betting Sites.
| National Championship 2025 |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | -360 | -380 | -370 |
| Notre Dame | +280 | +300 | +265 |
| Ohio State -8.0 | -105 | -105 | -105 |
| Notre Dame +8.0 | -115 | -115 | -115 |
| Over 46 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 46 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
Ohio State’s path to the title game has been nothing short of remarkable. Quarterback Will Howard has led one of the nation’s most explosive offenses, averaging over 40 points per game this season. Despite a minor hand injury sustained in the semifinal against Texas, Howard is expected to be at full strength for the championship, where his dual-threat skill set will take center stage.
Defensively, the Buckeyes have been a powerhouse, leading the country in both total yardage and points allowed. The defensive line, spearheaded by Jack Sawyer, has consistently disrupted opposing offenses. Sawyer’s electrifying 83-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in the Cotton Bowl semifinal against Texas showcased the defense’s ability to produce game-altering moments.
A win in the championship would secure Ohio State their second title in the College Football Playoff era, further cementing the program’s dominance under head coach Ryan Day.
Notre Dame’s journey to the championship has been defined by grit and determination, highlighted by a nail-biting 27-24 win over Penn State in the Orange Bowl. Quarterback Riley Leonard has been the driving force behind the Irish offense, showcasing a blend of veteran composure and pinpoint accuracy throughout the season.
The defense, while dependable, now faces its most daunting challenge in containing Ohio State’s dynamic and versatile offense. To pull off an upset, the Irish will need to minimize big plays and dictate the tempo of the game.
For Notre Dame, this matchup offers a golden opportunity to capture their first national championship since 1988 and reassert their place among the elite programs in college football.
Ohio State to win and cover the spread.
This season, both teams showcased elite scoring defenses, with Ohio State allowing just 12.2 points per game and Notre Dame close behind at 14.3 points per game. Even against tougher postseason opponents, the defensive prowess remained evident, as Notre Dame conceded only 17 points per game, while Ohio State allowed 17.3 points per contest.
Both squads excelled at limiting yardage, holding opponents to under 300 total yards per game and fewer than 170 passing yards per matchup. With nearly two weeks to prepare, head coaches Marcus Freeman and Jim Knowles are likely to have their defenses ready for a tactical showdown. Additionally, a Notre Dame offense dealing with injuries could contribute to what shapes up to be a low-scoring affair.
See below the best online betting sites in USA – 2025. You can read our comprehensive reviews to help determine the best option for your National Championship bets.
