And then they were two.
To no one's surprise, Alabama and Clemson will be the respective schools playing for the title of National Champion. Both teams have improved since last year's meeting, and this matchup should once again prove to be one for the ages.
So who has the upper hand? Will Saban tie Bear Bryant with his sixth championship win? Will Dabo finally get that coveted first trophy? Unfortunately, we won't know until next week, but until then, here's what you should expect in the big game.
When Bama has the ball...
Jalen Hurts. No matter which way you choose to look at this game, Alabama will need the talented true freshmen to remain poised on the biggest stage. Hurts biggest strength has been his ability to always stay relevant in a game, and Bama needs that rare maturity from their young star to be apparent now more than ever.
What about Bo? We all know what to expect from Mr. Scarborough. He's a tough runner, physical specimen and certainly looked every bit of the monster he is expected to be in Bama's semifinal win over Washington. Along with Cam Robinson, and the physical Alabama offensive front, Bo will need to continue to be solid and get tough yards to aid the young Jalen Hurts.
Alabama isn't going to surprise anyone with their offensive gameplan. They will continue to play the sound, fundamental football that has fueled their recent dominance. Hurts, OJ Howard and Bo Scarborough will certainly be the X-factors.
When Clemson is on defense...
As good as Clemson has been in the past few years, they're still somewhat underrated. When people think of stout defenses, the SEC and Big 10 usually come to mind, and if the ACC does arise, FSU is usually the one getting respects for its defense.
Clemson has quietly been one of the most consistent units in the country. They finished the regular season with a stellar ranking, as the 8th ranked overall defense in the country. Clemson is coming off the heels of an unprecedented 31-0 shutout of Ohio State, and their defense looked absolutely frightening.
Ben Boulware should lead this battle-tested group and they'll show up for the challenge. Clemson should pressure Hurts and force him to beat them. If Clemson can take Bama off their game, even in the slightest of measures, then the nation will be treated with a good 'ole fashion upset special. Expect Clemson's D to show up and show out.
When Clemson is on offense...
We all know just how explosive this Clemson offense can be. The offense isn't quite as electric as last year's edition, but this is a talented group, nonetheless.
Wayne Gallman is coming off yet another impressive season in the backfield, rushing for over 1000 yards and being a consistent presence in every game. The receivers are still loaded with talent, with the likes of big Mike Williams leading the pack and the explosive quartet of Artavis Scott, Ray-Ray McCloud, Dion Cain, and Hunter Renfrow rounding out a dynamic group. Throw in talented pass-catching Tight End Jordan Leggett and you have some serious trouble on your hands.
Of course, the ring-leader of the group is Heisman runner-up Deshaun Watson. We all know just how incredible of a player this guy is, and he will most certainly be the X-factor in this game. All these listed weapons don't flourish unless Watson is on his game. Clemson will go as far as Watson takes them. Expect Watson to elevate his game and show the world that there is someone who can best this legendary defense.
When Bama is on defense...
Yes. You read that last sentence correctly. Legendary. This is probably the best defense that Nick Saban has ever fielded and that is saying something. Without going down the roster, having guys like Jonathan Allen, Tim Williams, Mason Humphrey and Reuben Foster on the same field is enough to make anyone spit their coffee out. All four of these guys could be off the board in the first 15 picks in this year's draft. There is nothing else to say about this defense. It's one of the best that college football has seen in recent years. They know what time it is.
Prediction
As great as this defense is and as dominant Nick Saban and his boys can be, this is Clemson's time. Clemson will win a classic game 28-24, with Watson leading them down the field for the win. As cliche as this prediction may sound, this Clemson team is focused and on a mission. The aura surrounding them is much more intense than last year and the momentum from the throttling of Ohio State should propel them to this historic victory. The Clemson Tigers will be the National Champions.
As Artavis Scott, Ray-Ray McCloud and Deon Cain step onto Raymond James in their hometown on Tampa, FL, they will flourish in their biggest moment. As a Tampa native, this is like something out of a movie, and I want nothing more than to see these guys have an incredible moment like this. The whole city is behind you all!
Get it done Clemson!
