The College Football Playoff National Championship Game is set. The Alabama Crimson Tide and Clemson Tigers are the two teams left standing. This game will be featuring the Heisman winner and a Heisman finalist. It will be a battle between Bama's top ranked defense and Clemson's very mobile offense. This could be an instant classic if both teams play to their full potential.
Alabama's Monster Defense
Not many teams have had success running the ball against Alabama. In the Cotton Bowl, Michigan State was only able to tally 29 rushing yards. Florida had an even harder time, recording only 15 rushing yards against Alabama in the SEC Championship Game.
The big challenge during this game will be defending the pass. Clemson loves throwing the ball deep. Cyrus Jones and Eddie Jackson will have their hands full. They need to be careful about getting penalties early on because Clemson's offense is so dynamic they will capitalize on them.
The defense will also need to get pressure on Deshaun Watson as much as possible. Alabama leads the nation in sacks (50). They had four against Michigan State and were able to rush Connor Cook's passes on several other occasions. This will be a key factor to win this game, as well.
The Offense Will Roll
Jake Coker has come a long way since last year. After getting beat out for the starting quarterback position, he came back determined to take it this season. When he won over this team with his dedication and leadership, Coker transformed into a great quarterback for this team. He had a career game against Michigan State and has only thrown two interceptions in his last eight games. He's on pace to have another big night against Clemson.
Derrick Henry has been carrying this team on his back for most of the season. He set the SEC record for most rushing yards in a season after a carry in the Cotton Bowl. While Clemson has been good at defending the run this season, Henry will more than likely wear them down until he can break away for big yardage.
True freshman Calvin Ridley has been a big success for Alabama. At the beginning of the season there was an obvious hole at the wide receiver position with Amari Cooper gone. Ridley has stepped up and has been able to help take some of the load off of Henry's shoulders. Coker will more than likely air out some long passes and Ridley will be there to catch them.
Special Teams Is Crucial
Adam Griffith has had an outstanding season. Despite starting 0-4 on field goal attempts, he has only missed four in his last 12 games. If the game does come down to field goals Alabama will be able to trust he will make them.
Cyrus Jones is looking to have a big night as well. After returning a punt for a touchdown against Michigan State, he will want to do it again tonight against Clemson. Jones has the opportunity to get great field position every time he returns a punt, they just need to avoid holding calls that will cancel those big returns.
Where: University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, Arizona
When: January 11, 2016
Time: 8:30 PM EST
TV: ESPN