BCS Title Game keys

By Rick Morris

Tonight’s clash between #1 Notre Dame and #2 Alabama will answer the question of whether the Fighting Irish can win their first national championship since 1988 or whether the Tide will cement their status as one of the game’s great dynasties with an almost unfathomable three wins in four years.  Here’s the key factors in the game:

^ Notre Dame has had a tremendous red zone defense during the season.  They will certainly need it against Alabama.  The Tide’s trips down the field cannot end with more than one or two touchdowns if the Irish are to stay in this one.

^ The Alabama offensive line can help swing the outcome if they dominate the line of scrimmage as they always do.  Notre Dame’s front seven has its hands full.  The guess here is that Barrett Jones is healthy enough in the middle to be a true difference-maker.

^ The Irish will have to find a way to pass on ‘Bama.  That can be done.  Rushing is quite another thing, however, and unless Notre Dame can loosen up the Alabama defensive front with some over-the-top passes, they will struggle to move the ball.

My brother, a Notre Dame alum, is in the building for this one.  I would like to think that he will fully enjoy his trip to South Florida, but the odds are against it.  Never go against the smart money.  Miami 19, Notre Dame 9.