(BCSNN) -- The 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship Game is almost here, and it is set to be an exciting one. It's a battle between Midwest powers, the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes and the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Both teams are eager to end their championship droughts, with Notre Dame aiming for its first title since 1988 and Ohio State looking to reclaim its glory after winning the inaugural CFP championship a decade ago.

Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, is seeking his first national championship, while Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman faces his alma mater with everything on the line. Freeman, a former All-Big Ten linebacker for Ohio State, has led the Fighting Irish back to the "Promised Land," but so did Brian Kelly during his tenure in South Bend. Freeman can distinguish himself by doing what Kelly could not, and actually winning the big game once there.

In the semifinal rounds, Notre Dame showcased its resilience and situational awareness. The Irish overcame injuries and erased two deficits against Penn State, relying on key players like quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jeremiyah Love, and linebacker Jack Kiser. Backup quarterback Steve Angeli, wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, and kicker Mitch Jeter also played crucial roles. Greathouse, in particular, had a standout performance with career highs in receptions and receiving yards, including a game-tying 54-yard touchdown.

The Buckeyes have not trailed in their first three games, victories over Tennessee, Oregon and Texas, and has outscored its opponents, 69-25, in the first half and, even more impressively, 42-0 in the first quarter.

Ohio State's defense has been a standout this season, with senior defensive end Jack Sawyer delivering one of the biggest defensive plays in the semifinals. Sawyer's performance has been instrumental in the Buckeyes' journey to the championship. The Buckeyes' offense has also been impressive, with a balanced attack led by their talented quarterback and running backs.

The championship game promises to be a battle of wills, with both teams bringing the best players the sport has to offer to the field. Notre Dame's ability to overcome adversity and execute in critical situations will be tested against Ohio State's championship-caliber defense. The Buckeyes' offensive weapons will need to capitalize on every opportunity to secure the title.

Notre Dame will need to continue its third-down brilliance and sprinkle in downfield passes to challenge Ohio State's defense. The Buckeyes, on the other hand, will rely on their balanced attack and defensive prowess to come out on top.

As the two teams prepare for the championship game, the pressure will certainly be mounting on the shoulder of both Ohio State's Ryan Day and Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman. Both coaches are right on the cusp of winning something that will define their careers (and paychecks the next few years).

Be sure to tune in when the Buckeyes and Irish kickoff on ESPN at 7:30p ET, 6:30p CT.