The Ohio State Buckeyes host the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a highly anticipated season opener between two top-five teams. Ohio State enters as a 17-point favorite at home in Columbus.

Notre Dame's Outlook:

• Starting QB Tyler Buchner has limited experience (35 career pass attempts)
• Key concern is avoiding turnovers (3 INTs in limited action)
• Defense must step up to keep game competitive
• QB inexperience could be problematic in hostile environment

Ohio State's Advantages:

• Heisman candidate QB C.J. Stroud returns after impressive 2022 (4,000+ yards, 44 TDs)
• Strong offensive firepower despite losing Chris Olave to NFL
• Home field advantage at Ohio Stadium
• More experienced roster overall

Keys to Victory: Notre Dame:

• Defense must contain Stroud and Ohio State's offense
• Protect inexperienced QB Buchner
• Avoid costly turnovers
• Keep game close early

Ohio State:

• Fast start to build early lead
• Take advantage of Notre Dame's QB inexperience
• Win convincingly for playoff committee
• Showcase Stroud's Heisman potential

This matchup represents a major early test for both programs, with Ohio State looking to make an early statement in the College Football Playoff conversation. Notre Dame's success will largely depend on their defense's ability to keep the game manageable for their young quarterback.

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