The Gridiron Breakdown Special: Clemson Stands Supreme

I was wrong. Incredibly wrong about the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. I thought Alabama was going to win this all along. In the last week, I had convinced myself Alabama was going to win big.

Nope. Not even close. Clemson 44, Alabama 16. 

Photo from al.com

Alabama dug in a hole early after a pick six and while they answered a couple of times, Clemson kept coming and knocking them down. Each time the Crimson Tide stood up, they were clearly staggered. And then the dam broke. Clemson poured on 17 points to end the first half and walked into the locker room up 31-16. Alabama hit the panic button early in the 3rd Quarter with a horrendous fake field goal and Clemson stuffed it. Two of the Tigers true freshmen followed up with a big play score and the game was over for all purposes.

Alabama had been challenged once in the season - the SEC Championship Game against Georgia - and had responded the way we've come to expect them to respond coming back and winning the game. But this was different. Alabama was off-kilter all night. Credit to the Clemson defense and coaches and to their offense for never going away from what they were. In spite of not looking great early on, the Tigers offense found gear and never let up on the opposing Crimson Tide.

Photo credit Ben Margot, AP

So, where do we go from here? Many (including me) think these two teams could wind up in the same spot next season, playing for the championship in New Orleans. Clemson will have to find replacements for that outstanding defense, but the offensive firepower remains intact. Alabama will need to plug some holes on the offensive line and on defense as well, but much of their skill talent and back end is returning. The interesting story lines will be how Clemson handles this level of success having now officially joined the elites in college football and if Alabama can once again respond in the face of defeat to go on another run in their historic dynasty. And what of the rest of the field? Can Georgia get over the hump? Can Michigan? Will Ohio State remain relevant after Urban Meyer? Can Oklahoma find a defense? Is Texas really back? Can anyone in the PAC 12 do...anything?

For now, 2018 will go down as a year where chalk reigned supreme. But it was the orange piece and not the familiar crimson-hued stick that stood tall at the end of the season.

As always, thanks for reading. Please comment below, share with folks, and follow me on Twitter.