Alabama and coach Nick Saban return to the College Football Playoff as big favorites against the Big Ten champions. That didn't work out for the Crimson Tide last season, and the players say they are determined to wipe away the memories of that loss to Ohio State.
Michigan State used upsets and fantastic finishes to reach the playoff. The Spartans are the underdogs again, just the way they like it.
The cases for and the problems with the Crimson Tide (12-1) and Spartans (12-1) heading into the Cotton Bowl tonight in Arlington, Texas:
The case for Michigan State
Coach Mark Dantonio's Spartans are a resilient bunch, and they love to prove doubters wrong.