The anticipation is building as Notre Dame and Ohio State prepare to clash in the College Football Playoff National Championship on Jan. 20. Both teams navigated the grueling path of the new 12-team playoff format, and now only one game remains to crown a champion in this new era of college football.

For Notre Dame, a team that has overcome significant adversity this season, key players will need to step up once again to topple the powerhouse Buckeyes. Despite injuries to several star players, the Fighting Irish have relied on a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent to secure their spot in the title game.

CBS Sports’ Shehan Jeyarajah recently ranked the 10 most impactful players in the championship, with five Notre Dame standouts making the cut.

Riley Leonard lands at No. 3, praised as “a classic gamer who wins in the margins.” Leonard’s ability to extend plays with his legs complements Notre Dame’s dominant rushing attack, making him a critical piece in the Irish offense.

At No. 5 is Xavier Watts, a versatile defensive back who has been a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish defense. “The senior plays everywhere on the field,” Jeyarajah notes, highlighting his 13 interceptions over the past two seasons and his standout performances in the playoff, which include 25 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one interception.

Defensive lineman Howard Cross ranks No. 6. Despite the defensive line being hit hard by injuries, the sixth-year senior has been a “consistent mainstay” for the Irish, providing stability in the trenches.

Running back Jeremiyah Love comes in at No. 7. Despite dealing with injuries, Love remains an essential component of Notre Dame’s three-headed rushing attack alongside Leonard and Jadarian Price.

Finally, at No. 10 is wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, whose breakout performance in the Orange Bowl against Penn State—seven catches for 105 yards and a touchdown—solidified his role as a game-changer.

Notre Dame’s ability to rely on players like these will be crucial as they aim to capture their first national championship since 1988. With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes will be on the Fighting Irish to see if their stars can rise to the occasion.