Clemson vs. Alabama, Sugar Bowl 2018: Preview and prediction

Prediction

College football will be treated to the third meeting between these two programs in as many years, and if the third rendition is anything like the first two, it is going to be epic. Both of these teams are loaded with potential first-round talent, and they have spent the last two seasons ruining each other’s championship dreams. The College Football Playoff is a one-and-done situation, so while this is not another national title game, there is just as much on the line when they meet up on January 1.

Alabama’s defense is based on the running game, and they have some of the better running backs in the SEC. The problem with that is that the Clemson Tigers’ defensive front is the best in college football, so it is going to be a battle of two elite units. Alabama does have decent talent up front on the offensive line, but there are just too many big-name players to deal with when it comes to protecting against the Tigers.

Next: Best college quarterback born in every state

Clemson should be able to wrap up the running attack, or at least put the Tide in situations where they have to throw. Calvin Ridley is one of the better wide receivers in the country and should do well against the Tigers, but Alabama does not have much else when it comes to the passing game. Ridley has caught 55 balls this season, and while that is a decent number for him individually, Cam Sims is second on the team with only 14 receptions.

There are millions of Ohio State football fans who think that Alabama does not belong in this playoff, and they would like nothing more than to see Clemson beat them badly in the Sugar Bowl. While I believe the Tide will fall to the Tigers, it will by no means be a blowout. Clemson has too much talent up front to lose this one, and in the end, Bryant will make just enough plays to win this one, though it could come down to whoever has the ball last.

Final: Clemson 30, Alabama 27