The Ohio State Buckeyes are national champions again for the first time in 10 years.
The Buckeyes defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, 34-23, during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta Monday (January 20) night. Ohio State is the first team to win in the new 12-team playoff format, having also won the first national title during the original four-team College Football Playoff format 10 years prior.
Buckeyes running back Quinshon Judkins scored three touchdowns during Monday's win, which included two rushing and one receiving. The junior recorded 100 rushing yards, as well as two receptions for 21 yards.
Ohio State survived a late push by Notre Dame, having held a 21-7 lead at halftime and a 31-7 advantage midway through the third quarter. Quarterback Will Howard connected on a 57-yard pass to wide receiver Jeremiah Smith on 3rd and 11 with 2:00 minutes remaining, forcing the Irish to burn their final timeout after the ensuing play.
Howard finished Monday's game with 231 yards and two touchdowns on 17 of 21 passing, while also recording 57 yards on 16 rushing attempts. Ohio State defeated Tennessee, Oregon and Texas in the College Football Playoff en route to its national title victory against Notre Dame.