CFB National Championship Preview
We finally made it. It’s crazy how fast the season flies, but the entertainment provided makes the blur worth it. If you’re confused looking at the two teams left, don’t worry. They both made it back again. In a rematch of the 2016 National Championship Game, Alabama and Clemson return again in 2017. Both teams controlled their matchups in the semifinals to get here, which makes some believe that the two best teams made it here and no one else could have. Regardless of how you feel, this game should bring plenty of excitement to fans across the nation. Last year’s game was a shootout, something Alabama is more equipped to do this year, but I don’t think this year will be the same. Let’s take a look at how both teams could win (or lose) this game.
Alabama wins if: if you want the easy answer, the Tide just have to be themselves. They have been the most dominant team in college football and have proved it every week. Their defense is not a concern heading into this game, but where they will win the game is on offense. With only 57 yards passing last week, QB Jalen Hurts will need to have a stronger showing in the pass game to keep pace with Clemson. The Tide’s run game is as lethal as ever, but they will need to pass the ball against the Tigers. Last week, Washington’s defense stifled Bama’s attack all game until Bo Scarborough broke through. Clemson’s defense is just as good as the Huskies’, so newly appointed OC Steve Sarkisian will have to find ways to open up running lanes for Scarborough, Damien Harris, Joshua Jacobs, and Hurts.
Alabama loses if: Hurts can’t get going. The kid is, after all, a true freshman, and this is the biggest game of his life. For all of the talent he has, he certainly lacks in experience at this stage. Last week was an ugly showing for the passing game, and that will need to improve if the Tide want to beat Clemson. Alabama’s defense has been great all year (maybe the best ever), but in last years ‘ship, Tigers QB Deshaun Watson accounted for 478 yards and nearly won the game by himself. Should the Tide struggle containing Watson, this game could be over in a hurry.
Clemson wins if: Deshaun Watson takes care of the ball. Plagued by turnovers, Watson has looked anything but himself this season. While he has shown flashes, the Tigers are hoping for more consistency. While turnovers may be a problem, Watson has proven he can torch any defense, and the Tide witnessed that first-hand last year. In what was thought to be a low scoring game, the 2016 ‘ship quickly escalated into a shootout thanks to Watson’s dual threat abilities. His offense also has improved, as he now has his favorite target back (Mike Williams) and last year’s “hero” (Hunter Renfrow). Williams missed last season with a neck injury, but has been back to his elite self this season and gives the Tide plenty to think about. Another key component for the Tigers to win? The run game. Wayne Gallman and Watson did well last year against the Tide, but this year Gallman has been overshadowed by Watson. The run game should allow the Tigers to prevent any long yardage situations, something Bama makes a nightmare for offenses. If Watson keeps the ball in his hands, the Tigers will get revenge.
Clemson loses if: Turnovers and third downs plague them. As mentioned earlier, Clemson has endured too many turnovers, and that will spell trouble in this game. Things that will force those turnovers are not getting enough yardage on first and second down. Third and long situations are difficult against the Tide defense, who can make it seem like their blitzing seven when their only blitzing four. Between Jonathan Allen, Tim Williams, and Ryan Anderson, the Tide can get to the quarterback in a hurry. While most of the pressure seems to be on the Tigers’ offense, the defense needs to step up too. Last year, the Tide were not built for shootouts, but put up 45 points. Clemson will need to reel in an offense that has more weapons than last year.
A deep dive can give you matchups within the game to watch, but it comes down to who does their job better. Alabama is a touchdown favorite to win the game, but it’s just as much about Clemson playing their game as it is Alabama’s. The Tide need to continue playing elite defense and have their offense put up points. Clemson needs to limit turnovers, and provide the Tide’s offense with problems that they can’t solve. College football may be ending, but this final game should provide plenty of memories until next season.
My pick: Alabama 24 Clemson 21
