GLENDALE, Ariz.-- Kirby Smart’s last game as the defensive coordinator at the University of Alabama saw a mobile quarterback running a fast-paced offense that converted third down after third down against the Crimson Tide. It ended with 40 points conceded, 550 yards given up, and Alabama’s 16th national championship.
“We gave up 40 points and 500 offensive yards,” linebacker Ryan Anderson said. “That’s the worst game we’ve probably played on defense all year. But we got it done.”
Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson came out firing in the first half of the national championship game, picking apart the interior of Alabama's secondary while the defensive front struggled to affect the Heisman Trophy finalist in the pocket.