Notre Dame Secures CFP Title Spot with Last-Second Drama

Notre Dame fans, rejoice! The Fighting Irish are headed to Atlanta for the College Football Playoff National Championship after a dramatic 27-24 victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl. A thrilling interception by defensive back Christian Gray in the final moments set up Mitch Jeter’s game-winning 41-yard field goal with just 7 seconds on the clock, sending Notre Dame to their first championship game since the playoff expanded to 12 teams.

The game started slow, with Penn State taking an early 10-0 lead through the first half. However, Notre Dame’s offense ignited in the third quarter after quarterback Riley Leonard shook off a hard hit to lead the Irish on consecutive touchdown drives. Leonard finished with 223 passing meters, a rushing touchdown, and a passing score.

The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions, with 31 combined points and multiple lead changes. After Penn State tied the game at 24, Gray’s clutch interception gave Notre Dame one final chance to seal the victory. With the win, Notre Dame (14-1) advances to face the winner of Texas-Ohio State in the national title game on January 20th.