LAS VEGAS — In a thrilling finish to the College Football Playoff Championship on Monday night, Jayden Fielding’s successful 33-yard field goal with just 26 seconds left not only sealed Ohio State’s 34-23 win over Notre Dame, but also significantly impacted bettors who had placed wagers on the Buckeyes.

Ohio State entered the game as 8.5-point favorites at BetMGM Sportsbook and appeared to dominate the matchup, building a commanding 31-7 lead halfway through the third quarter. However, the Fighting Irish mounted a fierce comeback, scoring two touchdowns and converting two 2-point attempts, which tightened the game to just an eight-point deficit in the final moments. This turn of events shifted the betting landscape, putting those who had wagered on Notre Dame in a favorable position.

With time winding down, the Irish had a chance to regain possession and potentially tie the game. Yet, on a crucial third-and-11 play at their opponent’s 34-yard line, quarterback Will Howard executed a remarkable 56-yard pass to wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, effectively clinching the game for Ohio State and establishing the opportunity for the game-winning field goal.

Despite the successful kick, BetMGM did not consider it a significant factor in their overall results. BetMGM’s senior trader, Michael Ranftle, expressed confidence that the outcomes, including futures betting, would balance out favorably, but he acknowledged that betting on Notre Dame’s moneyline would likely result in losses by the time the game concluded.

No immediate reactions or statements were released following the game regarding the betting implications or overall outcome from BetMGM.