By the time I checked into the College Football Championship game the Clemson Tigers had things well in hand. Taking a 31-16 lead into the half-time, Clemson and everyone watching knew the history of Alabama's half-time adjustments that almost always see them taking over in the second half of a game. But tonight's second half was Bama-historic for other reasons; a shutout.
Never have I seen a Bama football team get shut out in the second half of a championship game. That's right! The #1 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide were held scoreless by the Tigers in the second half as they took what might've been their worst beating ever in a bowl and/or championship game. Trying everything in their power to turn the tide, they came up empty due to the overpowering play of the Tigers. The Tide couldn't Roll. It was simply the Tiger's night.
Now I'm no Alabama football historian, but I'm willing to bet that the proud Crimson Tide football program has never been so humbled. Granted, Clemson came in ranked #2 in the country. And the Tigers did win a come from behind championship game over Alabama two years ago, final score 35-31. But seeing the Tigers continue to make big play after big play in the second half of tonight's game against the defending champion Crimson Tide was just down right shocking.
One handed catches, defensive 4th down red zone stoppages and quarterback draws up the middle for first downs made Clemson appear ready to play an NFL divisional playoff game come this weekend. I had to take a second look to be sure the "A" was still painted on the Alabama helmet; because I'd never seen a Bama team dominated so completely. Credit that to the Tiger's "will to win."
Congratulations to the Clemson Tigers for believing in each other and executing one hell of a championship game plan.
Clemson 44
Alabama 16
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