Joe McGuire’s Ohio State Buckeyes win US College Football national championship game

Punter Joe McGuire says it’s an “unbelievable” feeling to get a College Football title ring as proud dad Eddie McGuire helped lead the celebrations after the big win.

Melbourne punter Joe McGuire was left speechless after reaching the pinnacle of college football when his Ohio State Buckeyes claimed national championship glory in a game watched by 30 million viewers.

“It’s unbelievable, I don’t know what to say, to be honest,” Joe said.

“It’s just unreal.”

After trying his hand at Aussie rules, McGuire turned to gridiron and has not looked back since his debut in September last year.

Eddie, Carla and Xander McGuire.

Eddie and Carla McGuire celebrate after the game with Joe on the field behind them.

Joe McGuire in his championship jersey.

The son of media identity Eddie McGuire he was thrilled to get his title ring and celebrate with his family in Atlanta after the 34-23 triumph over Notre Dame.

Eddie said: “It was great, all the atmosphere of a grand final, and it was just amazing seeing your son win it.

“The Trump family might be happy, but not as happy as the McGuires. It’s been a long campaign and we’re just so proud and delighted.”

In an incredible turn of events, Joe, 24, squared off against the Fighting Irish’s punter James Rendell, 24, the son of former Fitzroy captain and Collingwood recruiter Matthew Rendell.

McGuire (42) and Jayden Fielding (38) in action for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Picture: Todd Kirkland

McGuire (42) congratulates Jayden Fielding after kicking a goal. Picture; Todd Kirkland

The Ohio State Buckeyes won the decider against Notre Dame 34-23. Picture: James Squire

Ohio State Buckeyes fans during the second quarter. Picture: Carmen Mandato

His mum Leonie was in the stands while Eddie, his wife Carla and their other son Xander, all wearing Joe’s No.42 jersey, also took in the glitzy spectacle.

There were jubilant scenes following the victory, the Buckeyes’ first national championship in 10 years.

At the half the Buckeyes led the Fighting Irish 21-7, having run rampant with several touchdowns.

The margin closed late but with four minutes left it was a clear path to elation.

McGuire did not feature much, called upon only once late in the fourth quarter after Ohio State’s high-powered offence stalled for the first time.

But he was instrumental in getting to the title game, punting six times for an average of 42 yards in the Buckeyes’ lead-up win over Texas.

Buckeyes coach Ryan Day praised his group’s resilience and faith.

Rendell’s proud mum Leonie was also proud.

“It’s been fantastic to be able to go on this journey,’’ she said.

“And to be part of this. The team did so well to get this far. I still thought there was a chance right up until the end, but not to be.”

Prior to kick-off, Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and actor Coco Jones performed the US national anthem.

“I didn’t think I’d be where I am now, it’s all happened quickly,” Joe told the Herald Sun before the game.

“We’re a very tight-knit team and the coaches have done a great job of getting everyone to be close. It’s a big culture and I’ve loved it.”

Originally published as Joe McGuire’s Ohio State Buckeyes win US College Football national championship game