Miami Gardens, Fla. — The Notre Dame Fighting Irish delivered a thrilling performance in the Orange Bowl, defeating Penn State 27-24 to secure their spot in the College Football Playoff championship game. A game-winning 41-yard field goal from kicker Mitch Jeter with only seven seconds left capped a dramatic comeback for Notre Dame, led by quarterback Riley Leonard and a crucial interception from defensive back Christian Gray.

Penn State entered the game with momentum, taking an early 10-0 lead. However, their advantage slipped away in the second half as Leonard returned from a brief concussion evaluation, showcasing resilience and determination on the field. Prior to his exit late in the first half, Leonard had recorded 63 passing yards and conducted a drive that saw backup quarterback Steve Angeli help narrow the score to 10-3 before halftime. Coach Marcus Freeman expressed confidence in both quarterbacks, stating, "We’re confident in Steve if Steve has to go. If Riley can go, we’re confident in Riley," as reported by AP News.

Totaling 223 passing yards and contributing with his legs, Leonard led Notre Dame to tie the game in the fourth quarter with a spectacular 54-yard touchdown pass to Jaden Greathouse. Leonard noted, "When I saw Riley come back in, I said ‘this guy’s a fighter,’” as recalled by USA Today.

The matchup was not without tension. With less than a minute remaining and trailing 24-17, the Irish executed a series of strategic plays that culminated with Gray's key interception of Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, who mistakenly attempted a risky pass under pressure. Gray's defensive prowess positioned the Fighting Irish for the final game-winning drive.

“Just catch the ball. Just catch the ball,” Gray said, reflecting on his interception which proved pivotal, as detailed by The Guardian.

Notre Dame's victory extends their season record to 14-1, and they will face the winner of the Texas vs. Ohio State match on January 20 in Atlanta. This game marks their first appearance in the national championship since 1988, with Leonard emphasizing the significance of his choice to transfer to Notre Dame, saying, “Obviously this is the right place and I made the right decision,” as reported by AP News.

Coach Marcus Freeman also made history as the first Black head coach to lead a team to the College Football Playoff national championship. He noted the team's journey and resilience, declaring, “We found a way to make a play when it mattered the most,” according to CNN.

With all eyes now on the national championship, the Fighting Irish are poised to chase their 12th title in program history, hoping to bring home the trophy back under the Golden Dome.