We’re seeing God move in collegiate sports — football in particular — perhaps more than ever in our lifetime. Both players and coaches are proclaiming the name of Jesus on the public stage, and that includes the two teams — Ohio State and Notre Dame — facing off in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game (7:30 p.m. ET Monday on ESPN).
How great has it been to see so many in college football praising Jesus these last few weeks? pic.twitter.com/9xBt33E8Ir
— Sports Spectrum (@Sports_Spectrum) January 15, 2025
Here are 10 ways you can pray for the players, coaches and all those involved in the title game:
Pray for the city of Atlanta
Lift up the city of Atlanta, where thousands have come together to make this massive event possible. Pray for those working behind the scenes — parking attendants, food servers, cleaning crews — that they would feel valued and appreciated. Ask for God’s wisdom to guide civic leaders in their decisions and for His peace and protection over Atlanta’s first responders as they serve the community.
“But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you … for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” — Jeremiah 29:7, ESV
Pray for safety
In light of recent tragedies, pray earnestly for the safety of all fans gathering in Atlanta. Ask for God’s protection over the players on the field, that the game would be free from injury, and for wisdom and precision for the athletic trainers and doctors who care for them. Pray that this night be free from serious injuries for anyone involved. May this be a day of joy and unity, untouched by harm or fear.
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior — from violent people you save me.” — 2 Samuel 22:2-3
Pray for the players on both teams
Pray that every player on the field would encounter Jesus in a personal way during the game. Ask that they would resist the temptation to tie their worth to their performance, or to the game’s outcome. Instead, pray that they discover their true identity in what God declares about them, that they are loved and valued beyond measure, and that their effort would come from a place of appreciation of what Christ has done for them.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
Pray for the coaches
Pray that the coaches would lead with integrity and recognize the immense responsibility they have to shape the young men they coach. Ask for strength and wisdom as they guide their teams, and pray for their families, who share their husbands and fathers with countless others. May their leadership reflect the heart of Christ.
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither — whatever they do prospers.” — Psalm 1:1-3
Pray for the team chaplains
Lift up the team chaplains as they lead pregame chapel services and moments of prayer. Pray that they would be filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly proclaiming the Gospel. Ask that their words would resonate with the players, sparking transformation and deepening their faith.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9
Pray for the campus of Notre Dame
Ask God to move powerfully on the campus of Notre Dame. Pray that campus ministries and local churches would be places of refuge, where students can encounter the love of Christ. Pray for ministry leaders to build meaningful relationships, make disciples, and equip students to share the Gospel boldly with their peers.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19-20
Pray for the campus of Ohio State
Ask God to move powerfully on the campus of Ohio State University. Pray that campus ministries and local churches would be places of refuge, where students can encounter the love of Christ. Pray for ministry leaders to build meaningful relationships, make disciples, and equip students to share the Gospel boldly with their peers.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19-20
Pray for your own heart
Take a moment to pray for your heart as you engage with the game. Ask for the grace to enjoy the event without letting the outcome affect your attitude or peace. Pray for protection from distractions or desires that could compromise your faith, and for a heart that remains focused on what truly matters.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
Pray for the seniors
For many seniors, this game marks the end of a significant chapter. Pray for their transition into the next phase of life — that they would step into their roles as husbands, fathers and community leaders with courage and faithfulness. Ask God to guide their futures and empower them to honor Him in all they do.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5-6
Pray for players to be bold as they proclaim Christ in victory or defeat
When the final whistle blows, players will step onto a platform to speak to millions. Pray that those who follow Christ will proclaim Him boldly, in both victory and defeat. Ask the Holy Spirit to prepare the hearts of fans who hear their words, that the Gospel would inspire and transform lives through their testimony.
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” — 1 Peter 3:15
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