The Alabama Crimson Tide and the Clemson Tigers are set to battle it out in the National Championship Game for the third time in four years. Both are coming off dominant wins in the semi-finals, but I think Alabama has a significant edge.

The Crimson Tide jumped out to a three-touchdown lead over Oklahoma before stepping off the gas pedal, yet without allowing their opponent to get too close in the 45-34 victory. The Tide are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games as a favorite of 6+ points and have won their last six games by an average of 22.5 ppg, very impressive considering they've faced tough opponents like LSU, Mississippi State, Georgia and Oklahoma.

Clemson put a 30-3 beating on Notre Dame in its semi-finals matchup, not a big surprise IMO as it was always gonna be a one-sided affair. Clemson has won nine consecutive games by double digits, but it has had a fairly easy schedule and certainly not faced a team even remotely close to Alabama's caliber.

We can also note that on Dec. 20, three Clemson players — starting defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, offensive lineman Zach Giella and tight end Braden Galloway— were disqualified from competition after failed drug tests. It is at the writing of this preview (Jan 2) unclear whether they'll be allowed to participate in this contest, but either way I like Bama to get it done.

10* play on Alabama Crimson Tide.