In a thrilling showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Ohio State Buckeyes turned the tables on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, clinching their first college football playoff championship since 2014 with a triumphant 34-23 victory.

With this victory, Ohio State not only ended their nine-year championship drought but also reminded Notre Dame that Googling 'How to Stage a Comeback' is not a winning strategy. Quarterback Will Howard was so hot he could have roasted marshmallows with his record-setting start of 13 consecutive completions, while their defense left the Fighting Irish pondering if they’d accidentally signed up for the college-level hide-and-seek club. As the Buckeyes celebrated their sweet redemption, one can only hope Notre Dame brings more than just their lucky charms next season.

The day began under the bright lights of Atlanta, where 77,660 fans gathered, presumably to witness either a thrilling game or a giant commercial about college football. As it turns out, they got both. Ohio State quickly shook off the early jitters by reversing a 7-0 deficit, treating Notre Dame to a surge of 31 unanswered points that could only be described as electrifying. By the end of the first half, spectators had started to feel the palpable tension of a very one-sided royal rumble.

Quinshon Judkins, embodying the spirit of a determined jackrabbit, rushed for 100 yards and completed a hat trick with three touchdowns. His performance was so stellar that it could have driven lesser men to retire early. Meanwhile, Will Howard was playing like he was auditioning for the role of 'Most Unlikely Hero,' delivering an impressive performance that included that illustrious CFP record. His completion of 13 consecutive passes earned him a spot in the hearts (and records) of Buckeyes fans—a feat that surely made the Notre Dame defense reevaluate their entire life choices, particularly about choosing to play on that field.

Moreover, the highlight of the night came when Jeremiah Smith executed a pivotal catch, connecting with Will Howard for a key gain. This connection not only advanced their yardage, but also served as a reminder that key gains sometimes come at a cost—unless, of course, you’re a Buckeyes fan. In that case, the excitement of the game certainly reigns supreme.

Ryan Day, head coach of Ohio State, had been facing a barrage of critical chatter before the season kicked off. Yet, amid the noise, he orchestrated a final act worthy of a grand maestro, leading his team to their long-awaited championship. If this season taught the football world anything, it's that redemption can occasionally be found on the sidelines, hiding behind a playbook and a carefully managed game plan.

Despite Ohio State's apparent dominance, Notre Dame wasn’t ready to go gentle into that good night. They attempted a comeback that resembled more of a bad sequel that no one really wanted. Mistakes piled up faster than odd cola flavors at a movie theater—the only thing missing was a fizz. What started as a promising indie flick turned into a story with an abrupt ending, as they just couldn't reel in the Buckeyes’ lead. One could almost hear the collective groan of a thousand hopeful fans as their strategy unraveled in front of their eyes.

As the clock wound down and with the trophy in their grasp, Ohio State proved that patience, persistence, and a dash of luck can win the day. And as fans wrapped themselves in their scarlet and gray, they couldn’t help but notice the irony—the last time Ohio State won a national title, they were probably using flip phones and writing papers in Microsoft Word. Now, they were sending championship selfies with the ease of someone who just discovered filters.

For Ohio State, this win was more than just a trophy. It was a statement, a clarion call resonating through the college football universe: they’re back, and they’re not here to play games—except the actual game of football, of course. As the dust settles from the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship, one thing is clear: the Buckeyes have not only reclaimed their sense of humor but also achieved their first national championship in the College Football Playoff era since 2014. So until next season, may the best team bring their playbooks, and not get too comfortable with those magic charms.