College Football Best Bets: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Championship Picks – Monday, January 20

The College Football National Championship is finally here, and we’ve locked in some of the top plays for the showdown between Ohio State and Notre Dame. As always, our picks are backed by our proven 3-step model: data-driven research , trends analysis , and AI insights .

Let’s break down the top picks for tonight’s big game using our exclusive system of Props (bets we like), Locks (our favorite bets), Drops (leans we don’t love but don’t hate).

Ohio State Moneyline (-130)
The Buckeyes have been dominant all season, and their defense should make the difference in this matchup. With a balanced offensive attack and a top-tier secondary, Ohio State is well-equipped to outlast Notre Dame and claim the title.

Jeremiah Smith Anytime Touchdown (+180)
The freshman standout has been a go-to weapon in big moments, and his red-zone involvement makes this a strong value play. Against a Notre Dame defense that has struggled against elite playmakers, Smith should find the end zone.

Under 22.5 First Half Total (-110)
Both teams boast elite defenses, and in a high-stakes championship setting, we expect a conservative first half. Ohio State’s defense, in particular, has been stifling early in games, which could lead to a slow start offensively.

Under 47.5 Game Total (-115)
The championship atmosphere, combined with two of the nation’s best defenses, points toward a lower-scoring battle. Ohio State’s defense has allowed fewer than 20 points in most of its games, and Notre Dame has relied on controlling possession rather than explosive plays.

Final Thoughts/Trend Analysis

The Ohio State Moneyline has been a heavily backed bet, as many believe their defense gives them a crucial edge. Jeremiah Smith’s touchdown prop has also gained traction, given his recent red-zone involvement.

Additionally, the under on both the first half and full game total aligns with trends in previous championship matchups, where nerves and defense tend to dictate the pace.

We’ll continue tracking the top betting trends throughout bowl season! Let’s cash in on the College Football National Championship picks!

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