They say sequels usually don’t have the same value as the original. These people must not pay attention to college football, especially the last four years. Alabama/Clemson has been anything but dull the last three times they have played. OK, last years game didn’t live up to the hype but this has been a great series. Let’s take a look at the past three games between these two powerhouses.
2015 : Alabama 45, Clemson 40 – The tide met their match against a young Clemson team who matched Bama on every possession. But it was the head coach himself who made the call of the game with his infamous “pop kick”. With 10:34 left in the game, Bama kicks an onside kick to gain back momentum and eventually take the lead and win the game.
2016 : Clemson 35, Alabama 31 – A game that literally came down to 1 second left on the clock, junior quarterback Deshaun Watson found Hunter Renfrow in the endzone to secure Clemson’s second National Title in school history and dethroning the Crimson Tide as the nations best team. This is the game that showed the world that Dabo and Clemson are just getting started.
2017 : Alabama 26, Clemson 6 – The crimson tide were looking for revenge after losing the national title in the pervious year. Alabama put on a defensive performance that smothered Clemson’s high potent offense. Tiger quarterback Kelly Bryant threw two interceptions, one for a return touchdown. With only 188 yards on offense, the Tigers looked inept against the fast and tenacious tide defense. This game sent Saban and company back to the national title game which they eventually won.
What does the 2018 edition have in store?
This years game should be really good and really close. There isn’t much separation between the tide and tigers. In total offense , Clemson ranks third in the nation with 7426 yards and 530.4 yards per game. Alabama ranks fourth with 7387 yards 527.6 yards per game.
On defense, Clemson ranks second in the nation, allowing a total of 3845 yards for the season and 274.6 yards per game. While Alabama ranks 13 in the nation, allowing a total of 4311 yards for the season and 307.9 yards per game.
Both teams have quarterbacks that can stretch the field and burn you with their arm. On the season, Trevor Lawrence has thrown for 2606 yards and 24 touchdowns. Tua Tagovailoa has thrown for 3353 and 37 touchdowns. The issue here is that both teams have a great pass rush, so you know both quarterbacks are going to have to get rid of the ball quick at times in this game. What has to happen is a solid ground game established. The question is which team does it the best? It’s going to be interesting to see.
We saved the best for last. Grab some wings, get comfy and enjoy the game. I’ll report back with a recap and a look at the 2019 season later this week.
