The stage was set, Alabama vs. Notre Dame, a classic rivalry. These two teams are some of the most successful in college football history. Notre Dame was undefeated yet were still considered to be the underdogs, mainly because Alabama had a substantially more difficult schedule, considering the SEC fields many high caliber teams.

Coming into the national title game, the Irish defense was ranked #1 with Alabama right behind them at #2. Before the game, Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly told a reporter that his team would have a long night if they could not stop Alabama’s rushing attack. Unfortunately for the Irish, that is exactly what happened. On the first possession, Eddie Lacy ran down the field to give the Crimson Tide an early lead. From that point, there was no turning back. Lacy ran for 96 yards and scored two touchdowns in the first half, one on the ground and one through the air, in the first half alone.

Freshman back T.J. Yeldon added a rushing touchdown along with AJ McCarron’s touchdown pass to tight end Michael Williams. Heading into the half, the score was 28 – 0 Alabama. It was not the start the Irish were looking for.

The Irish would need to score on the opening possession to have a chance at winning. They had a nice drive going, however it was stalled when Everett Golson’s deep pass was tipped by Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner and intercepted by safety Hasean Clinton Dix. At that point, a Notre Dame comeback seemed impossible. Alabama continued to run the ball at will, which set up a deadly play – action passing game. Freshman receiver Amari Cooper had two second half touchdowns for the Tide as they continued to pour it on. Eddie Lacy finished the day with 140 yards on the ground. McCarron completed 20 of his 28 pass attempts for 264 yards and four touchdowns.

This game was completely dominated by Alabama from the start. Although they may not get the stats, it was the Alabama offensive line that truly made the difference. Dominant is an understatement for how well they played. Notre Dame’s front seven was simply overwhelmed by the likes of Cyrus Kouandjio, Chance Warmack, Barret Jones, Anthony Steen, and D.J. Fluker.

This is the third national championship in four years for Nick Saban’s squad. It is safe to say that he has developed a dynasty and quite honestly it looks like he may bring another title back to Tuscaloosa.