Notre Dame Football Makes Noise, But Ohio State Still Beats Them 34-23: Softest Program in the Country?
In a season filled with high expectations and promise, Notre Dame football appeared ready to challenge the elite teams in the country. The Fighting Irish, with a strong defense and a rejuvenated offense, made noise early on, quickly earning respect across the nation. However, when the time came to deliver in a marquee matchup, they were outclassed by Ohio State, who triumphed 34-23 in a game that exposed the gap between the two programs.
Despite Ohio State’s often criticized lack of consistency this season, their $20+ million payroll and recruiting advantages proved too much for Notre Dame to overcome. The Buckeyes, loaded with NFL-caliber talent, were able to capitalize on crucial mistakes and impose their will in the second half, securing the win. For all the noise Notre Dame made heading into this game, it became clear that Ohio State, though imperfect, still had the edge where it mattered most.
The loss raised even more questions about the state of Notre Dame football. With lofty goals and a veteran roster, this was supposed to be the year they broke through. Instead, they came up short against a team that, despite their own struggles, had the resources and depth to stay competitive. Ohio State, with all the pressure and expectations on them, demonstrated once again that they could still outlast teams, even when they weren’t firing on all cylinders.
Now, the focus shifts to the broader conversation about Ohio State’s place in college football. Despite having one of the largest payrolls in the sport and a 12-team playoff opportunity, the Buckeyes continue to underperform when it matters most. As they march into next season, the question remains: Will they continue to be known as the “softest program in the country,” or will they finally live up to their massive potential? For now, Notre Dame’s defeat is just another chapter in Ohio State’s inconsistent saga.
