The #2 Ohio State Buckeyes face the #5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish as 17-point favorites in one of college football's premier Week 1 matchups. Here's why the Buckeyes could cover this large spread:

Quarterback Advantage

• C.J. Stroud is a top-3 Heisman candidate leading OSU's offense
• Notre Dame's QBs are all sophomores or younger with limited experience
• Buckeyes have clear edge in passing game experience and talent

Home Field Factor

• Game is in Columbus at Ohio Stadium
• OSU lost just one home game last season (to Oregon)
• Notre Dame rarely plays true road games against elite opponents
• Inexperienced Irish QBs must manage hostile environment

Motivation for Style Points

• Dominant win over top-5 team would boost playoff resume
• Statement victory could sway CFP committee
• Buckeyes incentivized to play aggressively all 4 quarters
• Ohio State needs convincing wins against ranked opponents

The combination of quarterback advantage, home field, and motivation to impress the playoff committee gives Ohio State a strong chance to cover the 17-point spread against Notre Dame's inexperienced offense in this high-stakes opener.

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