In a dramatic Orange Bowl showdown, Notre Dame rallied to defeat Penn State 27-24, securing their place in the College Football Playoff National Championship game. The victory marks the Fighting Irish's first appearance in the championship game of the expanded CFP era.

Kicker Mitch Jeter sealed the win with a clutch 41-yard field goal, culminating a closely contested match between two powerhouse programs. Notre Dame's resurgence was fueled by the resilience of quarterback Riley Leonard, who returned to the game after suffering an injury in the second quarter. At the time of Leonard's injury, Notre Dame trailed 10-0, with backup Steve Angeli stepping in to lead a field goal drive before halftime.

Leonard's return in the second half ignited the Irish offense, leading a touchdown drive to tie the game. The two teams then exchanged scores in a thrilling back-and-forth battle. With two minutes remaining, Penn State's defense forced a crucial third-down sack on Leonard, giving Penn State quarterback Drew Allar a chance to orchestrate a game-winning drive. However, Allar threw an interception, returning possession to Notre Dame. Leonard capitalized on the opportunity, leading the final drive that set up Jeter's winning field goal.

This thrilling victory follows Notre Dame's historic win against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. The Fighting Irish now await the winner of the Cotton Bowl between Ohio State and Texas in the National Championship game.

Notre Dame and Penn State face off at the line of scrimmage during the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl on January 9, 2025. (Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter celebrates a tackle on Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)

Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard celebrates a touchdown. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)