Both teams gave glory to God.
After the Ohio State University Buckeyes defeated the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday, both teams expressed their gratitude to God for the opportunity to compete. The Buckeyes won 34-23 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and several players took time after the game to acknowledge their faith.
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, who led his team to victory, was vocal about his religious beliefs during the post-game interview. He credited his success to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and expressed deep gratitude for his teammates, family, and coaches. Howard, who transferred to Ohio State from Kansas State in January, shared that he was “so glad God gave me a chance to be a Buckeye” and thanked the coaching staff for changing his life. When accepting the Offensive MVP Award, Howard reaffirmed his faith, stating that all the glory and praise belonged to Jesus Christ.
Cody Simon, Ohio State’s linebacker and Defensive MVP, also attributed the team’s success to divine intervention, expressing thanks for what God had done for the team. He emphasized the unity and hard work of his teammates, stating that everyone on the team was committed and dedicated throughout the season.
Notre Dame’s quarterback, Riley Leonard, though his team did not win, also acknowledged his faith after the game. Leonard expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in the national championship, thanking Jesus Christ. He shared that he had written Proverbs 27:17 on his hand, which states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” reflecting on the mutual strengthening of faith between the two teams throughout the competition.
Earlier this month, Ohio State players made headlines for their public display of faith, with footage showing the team kneeling in prayer after a game against the University of Texas. The Buckeyes’ spiritual commitment was also highlighted in August when several players shared their testimonies at a revival event attended by hundreds of people on campus.