The College Football Playoff National Championship: Alabama vs. Ohio State

After many unprecedented moments during this college football season, for players, coaches, and fans alike, the biggest college football game of the year took place last Monday, between two great football programs, the Alabama Crimson Tide and Ohio State Buckeyes. 

First of all, how did these two teams get here? In a year of unpredictable and ever changing moments, both programs, along with the whole association, faced many challenges in getting a full season. Ohio State got 3 games canceled due to COVID-19, raising many questions among fans on whether the team’s 7 wins are enough to qualify them for a spot in the playoffs. Alabama on the other hand smoothly sailed through the season with no interruptions in their season whatsoever, even through legendary Alabama coach, Nick Saban’s, contraction of the coronavirus in late November. 

The game was played out in Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, the same place where last year’s Super Bowl between the Chiefs and 49ers took place. However, unlike the Super Bowl, the championship game was not close. As injuries overtook the Buckeyes early on, the Crimson Tide handedly gave the Buckeyes their first loss on the biggest stage, beating them 52-24. Early on, it looked as if we were in for a good one as scores were level, but come the second half, the Crimson Tide offense took over. In particular, the game was highlighted by this year’s Heisman Trophy winner, Devonta Smith of Alabama, recording 12 receptions, 215 yards, and 3 touchdowns, and teammate quarterback Mac Jones, who was 36-45 on pass attempts, throwing for 464 yards and 5 touchdowns. However, the more astonishing statistic after the win is Coach Saban’s 7th overall national championship (6 with Alabama, 1 with LSU), closing in on cementing himself as arguably the greatest college football coach of all time. 

Not only was the game a great spectacle for all, but also a great opportunity for scouts, coaches, and teams across the NFL to see the bright and upcoming stars of the future. Justin Fields, quarterback for Ohio State, shined this season, showcasing his skill, work ethic, and toughness, especially in the Semifinal game versus Clemson, where he faced a huge hit but took it like it was nothing. Although he lost when it really mattered, Fields has definitely caught the eye of the NFL, raising his draft capital to a potential Top-5 pick. Furthermore, the Alabama offensive Big 3, including Mac Jones (QB), Najee Harris (RB), and Devonta Smith (WR), all showed what a classic Coach Saban offensive looks like. The three look forward to the draft, ranking as top-prospects in their respective positions. 

As the college football season comes to a close, players look forward to the opportunities soon to come, hoping to get their opportunity to play under the Friday night lights (or Monday).