ESPN Cleveland radio host Tony Rizzo wants the Ohio State Buckeyes to show up angry and ready to take the fight to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the National Championship Game. While discussing the major contest, Rizzo detailed how the pressure was unquestionably on the Buckeyes in the game and how Ohio State could not let Notre Dame stay close in the contest.
Tony Rizzo’s National Championship Comments
Rizzo made clear that the Buckeyes were the ones who needed to set the tone early against the Fighting Irish, as they have the most pressure heading into the game.
“Make no mistake, though, the pressure is clearly on Ohio State. So, I want them to play how they have been playing the last three games. Angry. Angry. Playing with a purpose.
“Don’t let Notre Dame stay close. That is exactly what they need to do in this game. And Jeremiah Smith is already on record as saying he’s looking forward to putting on a show, let’s see it,” he stated.
.@TheRealTRizzo wants to see the Buckeyes play ANGRY tonight! pic.twitter.com/ChFKGBnwiO
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) January 20, 2025
Ohio State Buckeyes Keys To Success in National Championship
Ohio State has been thriving on both sides of the ball in recent games. To come out of the contest on top, the Buckeyes’ defense will need to shut down Fighting Irish star running back Jeremiyah Love, who has 19 total touchdowns on the year.
To this point in the season, Ohio State’s defensive unit has been dominant, averaging only 12.2 points and 89.9 rushing yards against per game, something that is first and third, respectively in college football.
Offensively, they will need to get star receiver Jeremiah Smith to produce early and often in the contest. Smith had 13 receptions for 290 yards and four touchdowns in the opening two games of the College Football Playoff. However, he was held to only one reception for three yards in the semifinal against Texas.
As a result, Ohio State will need to ensure that one of its top offensive talents is consistently involved throughout the game.
MORE: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Prediction — Marcus Freeman Gets the Upset?
The Buckeyes will play the Fighting Irish on Jan. 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons.
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