2. Total Domination in Sugar Bowl
For a game where the country felt Alabama did not belong, it wholly obliterated number one ranked Clemson. The Tigers were held to zero touchdowns and 188 yards of total offense, 260 yards below their season average.
Alabama was angry for two reasons. The country felt they did not belong in the College Football Playoff because of their loss to Auburn 26-14. The Tide’s defense suffered many injuries throughout the season and was playing with true freshmen and third stringers. The Sugar Bowl was the first game in which they had a healthy defense.
Secondly, the revenge factor after losing to Clemson in the championship game with a second remaining made the game personal. Players wanted everyone to know that they were the better team. The game was so personal to them, check out Tony Brown’s rant after the game.
Entering the third quarter, Alabama was ahead 10-6. The momentum swung Alabama’s way after Daron Payne intercepted a pass and ran 21 yards with a 15-yard penalty tacked on after a horse tackle. Afterward, Payne entered the game as a blocking tight end on the goal line. Hurts threw a dagger to the 308-pound defensive tackle for a 17-6 lead.
On the next offensive series, Bryant threw an interception to Mack Wilson who took it to the house 18 yards later. The defense resembled the great 2011 Tide defense. Kelly Bryant was utterly shaken as was Dabo, who lost his composure on the sidelines. Anfernee Jennings was a thorn in the side of Bryant.