One thing is certain with the new 12-team College Football Playoff format: the final two teams definitely earned their place in this championship match. Both teams had to secure three wins in the postseason to reach just one step away from the national title.

Their latest semifinal victories were particularly hard-fought. Notre Dame managed to clinch their win against Penn State with a field goal in the final seconds. While Ohio State’s 28-14 victory over Texas seems conclusive, it was nearly tied in the last quarter before the Buckeyes scored a decisive touchdown to secure their win.

These narrow victories create a mix of optimism and concern for each team as they gear up for the championship. Here’s what you need to know about the final matchup and how the teams compare.

No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 8 Ohio State

Time/TV/Location: 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, Atlanta.

Reasons to Watch: Notre Dame’s first challenge lies in how their defense struggled against Penn State’s rushing attack in the first half. This might bode well for Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins, who adds bulk alongside TreVeyon Henderson’s speed. However, Ohio State’s offense was not as dynamic against Texas as in their previous playoff games, indicating they may try to feature standout wide receiver Jeremiah Smith earlier in the game. With capable targets like Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate, quarterback Will Howard must perform at his best to navigate Notre Dame’s solid aerial defense, which often relies on single coverage. Defensive backs Xavier Watts and Christian Gray are key playmakers in the Irish secondary.

Ohio State’s defense will also aim to stifle Notre Dame’s rushing attack. This could be challenging given quarterback Riley Leonard’s effectiveness in scrambling for first downs and running back Jeremiyah Love’s ability to break away for big plays. However, Leonard will need to connect with wide receivers Jaden Greathouse and Beaux Collins to maintain an effective offense, which will be no easy task against Ohio State’s skilled secondary that includes safeties Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, and Lathan Ransom.

Ultimately, in a game of this magnitude, a kick could be the deciding factor. This could cause anxiety for Notre Dame fans who have worried about their kicking game earlier in the season, but Mitch Jeter is back to full health and confidence. He hit a season-long 49-yard field goal in the first-round win over Indiana, as well as a game-winner from 41 yards against Penn State. For Ohio State, Jayden Fielding has shown reliability from the 40-plus yard range, though he has missed his only attempt over 50 yards this season.

Reasons it Might Disappoint: While we hope the game is exciting, there is a risk that one team could dominate the other with a flurry of points. Ohio State has a history of high-scoring games. Even if the game turns into a punting duel, the multitude of explosive players on both sides should keep the tension high.