The matchup between Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator Al Golden and Ohio State’s offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is set to be a fascinating one.
On Monday, January 20, Notre Dame and Ohio State will face off in the National Championship game, wrapping up the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoffs. Notre Dame’s defense has been outstanding all season, even with injuries, while Ohio State’s offense has reached new heights with the help of an experienced offensive coordinator. Ohio State averages 35.8 points per game and ranks third in yards per play, showing a more efficient offense than in past years, even without stars like Justin Fields and CJ Stroud.
The game features a clash between Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator Al Golden and Ohio State’s offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Golden, a seasoned coach, has built one of the nation’s top defenses at Notre Dame. His defense ranks second in points allowed per game, sixth in yards allowed, and first in turnovers gained. Even with injuries to key players, Golden’s unit has remained strong.
Chip Kelly, known for his success at Oregon and in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, joined Ohio State as offensive coordinator in 2024. Under his leadership, the Buckeyes have become one of the most efficient offenses in college football, ranking in the top three for yards per play and passer rating.
This game will highlight Ohio State’s explosive receiving corps against Notre Dame’s tough secondary, and the battle between Ohio State’s run game and Notre Dame’s defense will be key. With both teams having strong units, the team that makes the big plays and executes well will likely win. For Notre Dame, Coach Golden faces his toughest challenge yet as he looks to bring a national title back to South Bend for the first time in over 35 years.
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