CFB College Football National Championship

There’s no arguing that both of these teams deserve to play in this game. Over the span of this season, both Clemson and Alabama have proven time and time again that they mean business. And, the University of Phoenix Stadium will be the battleground to determine who will be the 2015-16 College Football National Championship. 

Alabama Crimson Tide vs Clemson Tigers

• Time: Monday, January 11, 2016 8:30 PM ET
• Place: University of Phoenix Stadium

Alabama Crimson Tide Analysis

The Alabama Crimson Tide is like an iron curtain on defense, especially against the run. There’s simply no getting by it. Leonard Fournette couldn’t, practically all of the teams they faced after their loss to Ole Miss couldn’t, and the Spartans certainly couldn’t (they were shut out 38-0 in the Cotton Bowl). 

Considering that they only gave up 44 yards in their last two games, it’s going to take way more than an incredible effort to get through Alabama’s run defense. And, Clemson running back Wayne Gallman will not be the one to put one over on them. The Tide’s defense will undoubtedly be punching through Clemson’s offensive line time after time, forcing Tigers’ quarterback Wayne Gallman to commit costly turnovers. Even if Clemson goes to its passing game, Alabama’s secondary packs just enough punch to keep them contained. 

On offense, Alabama also showed that they mean serious business. In their game against the Spartans, quarterback Jake Coker had a great performance, going 25 for 30 for 286 yards and two scores. However, it’s their running game that will be their workhorse with Heisman trophy winner Derrick Henry leading the attack. 

Clemson Tigers Analysis

The Tigers silenced any critics that weren’t convinced they were the No. 1 seed heading into the College Football Playoff. Heading into their game against the Sooners of Oklahoma as the 4-point underdogs, the Tigers bucked the trend and won that game 37-17. 

On offense, quarterback Deshaun Watson was stellar, putting up 292 total yards and two touchdowns against the Sooners while running back Wayne Gallman added 150 rushing yards and two additional scores. Watson will attempt to crack Alabama’s defense with a spread out offense that relies on his mobility against which the Tide might be somewhat vulnerable. 

Clemson’s defense might also be able to slow down Alabama’s running game, keeping Derrick Henry at bay and with minimal yards. 

Betting Trends 

• Alabama is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
• Alabama is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
• Clemson is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
• Clemson is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
• The total has gone OVER in 7 of Clemson's last 10 games

Betting Line: The Alabama Crimson Tide is the 7-point favorite; the total is 51 points. 

Game Preview: Clemson might be able to pick up some momentum during the first half of the game however Alabama’s defense will maintain discipline, cracking down on whatever Clemson tries. Scratch another notch for Nick Saban, the Tide will win. 

Free Pick: Alabama at -7.