The stage is set for the highly anticipated 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, featuring a clash between the top ranked Michigan and the second seeded Washington. Scheduled to take place at the NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday, January 8, this championship showdown promises an exhilarating battle.
The contest pits future Big Ten adversaries against each other. The Wolverines are vying for their first national title triumph since 1997. On the other side, the Huskies are determined to secure their first championship since 1991 and make history as the Pac-12’s first titleholder since 2004, marking a significant moment in the conference’s final season. As both teams aim to etch their names in college football history, fans can anticipate a riveting spectacle on the grand stage of NRG Stadium.
See below the odds for the National Championship from three of the best online betting sites. Click here for more NCAAF National Championship odds.
Michigan secured its spot in the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship with a heartpounding 27-20 overtime victory against No. 4 Alabama in the Rose Bowl semifinal. The Wolverines displayed defensive prowess by halting Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe at the 2-yard line on a critical fourth and goal play, ultimately sealing the win. The overtime excitement began with a stellar 17-yard touchdown run from running back Blake Corum. This triumph not only marked Michigan’s first College Football Playoff victory but also ended a two season 0-2 start. It propelled the Wolverines to an unprecedented 14-win season, a historic feat for the school. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy played a pivotal role, contributing four touchdown passes to lead the Wolverines to their huge triumph.
On the other side of the bracket, Washington earned their ticket to the national title game by defeating No. 3 Texas 37-31 in the Sugar Bowl. Despite entering the matchup as a 3.5 point underdog against the Big 12 champions, the Huskies showcased their offensive prowess, overpowering the Longhorns. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. orchestrated an impressive performance, throwing for 430 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Dillon Johnson contributed with two rushing scores. This remarkable victory reflected Washington’s progress under second year coach Karen DeBoer. They boast a stellar 25-2 record since DeBoer’s arrival from Fresno State. This turnaround comes after the Huskies struggled to a 4-8 record in the 2021 season. An impressive transformation under DeBoer’s guidance.
Michigan’s ascent to greatness culminated in a breakthrough playoff victory over Alabama on Monday night. It marked the end of a three season quest for success. The Wolverines’ defensive prowess took center stage in the Rose Bowl, holding Alabama to a season low 288 yards. With a tenacious display, Michigan sacked Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe six times, including four in the first half. They sealed the win with a game winning stop on the final play. This defensive excellence mirrored their season long dominance, with the unit entering the College Football Playoff as the top ranked nationally in total defense.
While Michigan’s defense has been the backbone of their success, their offensive capabilities should not be underestimated. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy, one of college football’s most dependable passers, has been a key contributor. Running back Blake Corum has been a force on the ground. Accumulating over 3,500 rushing yards in the past three seasons. Corum’s remarkable performance includes leading the nation with 25 rushing touchdowns, setting a new Michigan single-season record.
Despite facing adversity, including a sign stealing scandal that led to a three game suspension for coach Jim Harbaugh, Michigan maintained its march forward. Throughout the season, the Wolverines consistently limited opponents, never allowing more than 24 points in a game and rarely finding themselves in a trailing position. As a testament to their resilience and determination, Michigan secured the top spot in the College Football Playoff Rankings amid challenges, setting the stage for a triumphant season.
Michigan are the -180 favorites for the National Championship.
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Washington’s remarkable journey to the College Football Playoff National Championship paints them as a team destined for success, having clinched victory in five consecutive one possession games, including a nail biting win over Texas in the semifinals. The linchpin of their success is quarterback Michael Penix, a Heisman Trophy finalist in his sixth and final college season. This left handed maestro, who joined Washington in collaboration with coach Karen DeBoer from their time together at Indiana, has been instrumental in the team’s achievements.
The synergy between Penix and DeBoer, previously fruitful during their stint with the Hoosiers, has blossomed even more at Washington. A testament to their offensive prowess is the trio of elite receivers – Rome Odunze, Ja’lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan – who form a formidable arsenal for the Huskies.
While Washington is recognized for their top tier passing offense, they’ve shown resilience with crucial defensive stops throughout the season. This well rounded performance secured the program’s second ever College Football Playoff appearance and marked their first victory in the playoffs. Additionally, the team demonstrates versatility in their ability to run the football, notably with Dillon Johnson surpassing 1,100 yards rushing this season after his transfer from Mississippi State. However, Johnson’s availability for the CFP National Championship is uncertain following an injury late in the fourth quarter against Texas. He was carted off the field after the game. The Huskies face a critical question mark regarding his participation in the final
This should be a close matchup. Wolverines to edge it.
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