Notre Dame safety and team captain Xavier Watts, who closes his collegiate career with 189 total tackles, 16 passes defended, 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and 13 interceptions, shared a message on social media thanking God, family, friends and Fighting Irish fans for sharing in his journey.

Ohio State and (7) Notre Dame will face off for the sport's most illustrious prize. This will be Notre Dame's first shot at a national championship since 2012, while the Buckeyes are back in the national title game for the second time under coach Ryan Day.