GLENDALE, Ariz. -- On the night that Alabama coach Nick Saban joined Bear Bryant as the only coaches in the history of the game to win at least five national championships, the Crimson Tide allowed Clemson 40 points and 550 yards.
On the night that Saban joined Frank Leahy of Notre Dame as the only coaches to win four national championships in a seven-year span, the Alabama offensive line judged the best in the nation gave up five sacks.
On the night that Saban made a compelling case that he has dislodged Bryant and Leahy and John McKay and Whomever You Care To Name as the best coach in the history of pompoms and shoulder pads, Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry gained 30 yards in 16 second-half rushes.