Two of college football’s most storied programs, Notre Dame and Ohio State, are set to clash in the national championship game on January 20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Tickets are in high demand and come at a premium, with prices ranging from $1,347 on StubHub to $1,555 on SeatGeek. VividSeats offers tickets at $1,452, with new customers eligible for $20 off orders over $200 using the promo code MassLive20.
This matchup also marks a historic milestone: both teams will play their 16th game of the season, an unprecedented feat in FBS football since Yale and Penn achieved it in the 19th century. The expanded College Football Playoff format, requiring teams to navigate up to four postseason games on top of a 12-game regular season and potential conference championship, has brought new challenges for players, coaches, and fans alike.
Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman emphasized the importance of adaptability and sports performance in preparing for the grind of a 16-game season, while Ohio State coach Ryan Day highlighted the focus on depth and strategic roster management to ensure his team remains fresh.
The extended schedule has led to wear and tear on players and increased ticket prices for fans. However, for Notre Dame and Ohio State, the reward of playing for a national title outweighs the challenges. As Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden put it, the marathon season is uncharted territory but also a blessing, with both programs vying for a championship ring in what could be a game for the ages.
