In a thrilling display of skill and faith, the Ohio State Buckeyes triumphed over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, securing a 34-23 victory at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The game, held on January 20, 2025, was not just a showcase of athletic prowess but also a powerful reminder of the role faith plays in the lives of these young athletes.
Following the game, Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard, who played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory, took a moment to express his gratitude to God. In an interview with ESPN’s Molly McGrath, Howard stated, "First and foremost, I got to give the glory and the praise to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I wouldn’t be here without him." His heartfelt acknowledgment of faith resonated with many, highlighting the importance of spirituality in sports.
Howard, who transferred to Ohio State from Kansas State, reflected on his journey, saying, "I’m so glad God gave me a chance to be a Buckeye." His words underscored the sense of community and support he has found within the OSU program, emphasizing the impact of coaches and teammates on his life.
The post-game celebrations were filled with expressions of gratitude. After receiving the Offensive MVP Award, Howard reiterated his commitment to honoring God, proclaiming, "I have to give my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ all the glory, all the praise." His teammate, linebacker Cody Simon, who earned the title of Defensive MVP, echoed similar sentiments, saying, "The Lord did something special on this team, and we’re just so thankful." Simon’s words reflected a collective sense of unity and purpose among the players.
On the other side of the field, Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard also expressed his faith despite the loss. In a press conference, Leonard thanked God for the opportunity to compete, saying, "I am happy to see godly men come out on top no matter what the circumstances." He shared a personal touch by revealing that he had written Proverbs 27:17 on his hand, a verse that emphasizes the importance of mutual support and encouragement among individuals.
The camaraderie between the two teams was palpable, with Leonard noting, "Throughout the week, us and Ohio State were the two teams who praised Jesus Christ the most." This mutual respect and shared faith created a unique bond, transcending the competitive nature of the game.
Earlier in the season, the Ohio State team made headlines when footage surfaced of players kneeling in prayer on the field before their Cotton Bowl game against the University of Texas. This powerful moment captured the essence of their faith-driven approach to the game and their commitment to honoring God in every aspect of their lives.
In August, several Buckeye players participated in an on-campus revival event, sharing their faith journeys with hundreds of students. These testimonies not only inspired their peers but also showcased the vibrant Christian community present within the Ohio State University.
As the dust settles on this thrilling championship game, it’s clear that the impact of faith in sports extends beyond the field. The players’ willingness to openly express their gratitude to God serves as a reminder of the values that unite them, fostering a spirit of fellowship and resilience that resonates with fans and believers alike. In a world where competition often overshadows camaraderie, these young athletes have shown that faith can be a powerful motivator, guiding them through both victories and defeats.
For those interested in exploring more about the intersection of faith and sports, resources like Sports Spectrum and Christian Sports Network provide valuable insights and stories that celebrate the spiritual journeys of athletes.