National Championship game...

Well it was a reasonable game up until just before half time. 

While I fully support the decision of College Football to have their season and I am glad that the Big Ten finally decided (late in the game) to have a season, there have been issues all season long with teams coming up on big games short players because of Covid restrictions. Unfortunately that reality still looms over the season. Would Notre Dame had defeated Clemson if Trevor Lawrence had not been out on Covid restriction. Would Notre Dame had made the playoffs without that win?

Last night the Ohio State Buckeyes came into the game missing 18 players. That included both their starting interior defensive linemen, along with other starters, and several other contributing players. They also lost their number one tailback (Trey Serman) on his first carry. This was a guy who had rushed for 524 yards in his past two games (Big Ten Championship and First round of the playoffs). Ohio State may had issues keeping up with Alabama at full strength. At this sort of diminished capacity, they were no match for Alabama. 

That being said, there is no taking away from what Alabama accomplished both in this game and throughout the season. DaVonta Smith just might be the most talented and explosive wide receiver that the college game has ever seen. Mac Jones clearly won the quarterback battle with over 460 yards passing. There might be an asterix next to this season, but Alabama deserves their championship, no asterix necessary.