ATLANTA — Coaches Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame and Ryan Day of Ohio State have shared their thoughts regarding pregame speeches, dismissing the idea that dramatic, theatrical words are necessary for motivating their players. Both coaches indicated on Sunday their intentions to keep their final messages before the College Football Playoff championship game simple and focused on maintaining the successful routines that brought the teams to this stage.
Freeman emphasized the importance of continuing the team’s established patterns, stating, “You’ve got to do what we’ve done, and you’ve got to do it better.” He acknowledged that facing a formidable opponent in the national championship game naturally invites a surge of emotion, which should arise spontaneously at that moment.
On the other hand, Day expressed confidence in his players’ readiness, insisting that their preparation had already built the necessary anticipation. He remarked, “Being in the locker room is a special moment,” emphasizing that motivation shouldn’t be forced right before the game. “It’s a buildup that usually starts 48 hours out to get your body, your soul, your mind ready to go play in a game like this,” he said, highlighting the extensive preparation that leads to game day.
In terms of personal challenges, Notre Dame kicker Mitch Jeter has demonstrated resilience, overcoming persistent hip and groin injuries just in time for the playoffs. After a regular season where he was only successful on half of his field goals, he has performed significantly better during the playoffs, making 7 out of 8 attempts. His game-winning 41-yard field goal against Penn State clinched a thrilling 27-24 victory in the Orange Bowl semifinal.
Jeter credited his father, Andrew, a chiropractor, for playing a crucial role in his recovery. Traveling from their home in Salisbury, North Carolina, before games, Andrew provided him with much-needed treatment. Mitch expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Chiropractic is about aligning the body… He’s been a big part of my life and everything I’ve done so far this season.”
As for Freeman’s connections to Ohio State, he has been at the center of inquiries regarding his past as a player for the Buckeyes. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, he played for Ohio State from 2004 to 2008, participating in two BCS title games. Freeman has previously faced the Buckeyes as a coach twice, experiencing losses. While he acknowledges his history, Freeman has made it clear that the focus is on the present opportunity rather than past affiliations.
In terms of regional representation, Ohio State’s roster includes nine players from Georgia, with four serving as starters, while Notre Dame features four players from the state. Day noted that many players from Georgia were thrilled to have the championship game in their home state, creating excitement in the locker room about the potential to play in front of family and friends.
As the championship game approaches, it’s noteworthy that Notre Dame enters as the No. 7 seed and Ohio State as the No. 8 seed in the inaugural 12-team playoff format. Historically, this scenario is rare; in the decade of the four-team playoff, only one instance occurred when both lower seeds reached the final. Ohio State leads the series against Notre Dame, having won the last six encounters and holding a 6-2 overall advantage. Additionally, this matchup marks Ohio State’s unique status as the first two-loss team to contend for the championship title.
This final game signifies another chapter in college football’s rivalry, as this will be the third championship clash between teams from neighboring states, with local fervor surrounding their event in Atlanta. As campuses are only 251 miles apart, anticipation is high for what promises to be an exhilarating contest.
