Get our expert betting predictions for the evenly-matched CFP semifinal clash between Notre Dame and Penn State.

The Penn State Nittany Lions and Notre Dame Fighting Irish will play in the Orange Bowl CFP semifinal in Miami Gardens, Florida, at 6:30 p.m. CST Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. More: Who is playing in College Football Playoff semifinals?

As Notre Dame and Penn State look to claim their first national championship since the Reagan administration—the Irish last won the title just 18 days before the Gipper left the White House in 1989, while the Nittany Lions claimed their second natty two years earlier—ESPN will be blessed with what amounts to an open field.