These are the biggest x-factors heading into the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Georgia Bulldogs.
In terms of narratives, this is one of the more exciting National Championship Games thus far under the College Football Playoff format. There are just so many things to talk about when it comes to the Alabama Crimson Tide and Georgia Bulldogs, that it’s a lot to digest.
With so much talent on both sides of the ball for both teams, there are going to be several factors at play when these two teams meet in Atlanta on Monday night. That, of course, means there are going to be some x-factors.
When considering the strengths of both Georgia and Alabama, this is going to be a game that is won in the trenches and on special teams. It’s also going to be a battle of which quarterback can make the bigger play and star players putting together their best performances. Here are three x-factors leading into the National Championship game.
3. Roquan Smith takes over like he did in second half vs. Oklahoma
Everyone knows Roquan Smith is one of the most talented linebackers in the nation, but he absolutely took over the Rose Bowl with his play. Running sideline to sideline, Smith didn’t allow the Sooners to beat him out on the edge and he delivered some big hits.
Against Alabama, Smith is going to be once again tasked with leading the charge and stopping a dominant Alabama run game. He’s also going to be keeping an eye on quarterback Jalen Hurts if he takes off too.
He’s proved himself to be a special talent and playing at home is a perfect chance for him to step up. If the Bulldogs are going to win this game, Smith has to have a huge performance and help shut down a dangerous Alabama running game.