The Athletic spoke to six FBS coaches to break down the key moments of Ohio State's championship win Monday night.

A controversial fourth down decision by coach Marcus Freeman, however, temporarily interrupted the Irish's momentum — and might have cost his team the chance to pull even closer. Here's a look into Freeman's decision to attempt an ultimately unsuccessful field goal in the title game.

Marcus Freeman spoke about his decision to kick a field goal while down 16 points to Ohio State in national championship game.

About halfway through the third quarter, it appeared the Buckeyes were easily going to cash their backers’ bets before the Fighting Irish made a late run. Notre Dame would score two touchdowns and successfully convert two 2-point conversions to cut the score to eight and very nearly got the ball back with a chance to tie.

After Ohio State jumped out to a 31–7 lead, Notre Dame attempted to claw back into contention in the second half. For a moment, it looked as though they had a shot to make thing

Facing fourth-and-goal, down 31-15 early in the fourth quarter in a College Football Playoff National Championship clash against Ohio State, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman elected to kick a field goal.

Down by 16 points, Notre Dame elected to try a field goal rather than go for a touchdown, a decision head coach Marcus Freeman defends.