Along with the new year, there comes a new champion.

The Clemson Tigers, currently ranked third in the world of college football with a 13-1 record, will take on the Alabama Crimson Tide, ranked first with a 14-0 record.

Monday, January 9 at 8 p.m. in Tampa, Florida. will mark the first rematch in college football championship game history. Last year, the Tigers fell to the Crimson Tide, crushing their undefeated season in a mere five point loss. This year, they seek vengeance, hoping to give ‘Bama a taste of what they went through last season.

When Washington, ranked fourth, took on Alabama in the Peach Bowl on December 31, the Crimson Tide was victorious over the Huskies, allowing them only one touchdown. Meanwhile, Clemson took Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl on the same day, dominating in their game as well. The Buckeyes did not get a single point on the board, marking OSU coach Urban Meyer’s first shutout in his career at the university.

Though Alabama’s win over Washington was impressive, it was an expected outcome. Given Alabama’s reputation, it was anticipated that they would move onto the championship game. This is a team that made a difficult schedule look like a walk in the park.

Beating the Buckeyes is a feat which should not go unnoticed; not only did the Tigers simply beat Ohio State, but they shut their opponent down entirely. With that being said, Alabama has cause to worry when facing this team, a vengeful team whom they barely beat last season.

Clemson should have its own fears going into the title game as well. There is a reason Alabama reigns as a dominate force when it comes to winning national championship titles. Currently, the team has the nation’s most powerful and impressive defense in all of college football as well as a powerful offense.

On the other side, however, the Tigers have Heisman Trophy Candidate and quarterback Deshaun Watson in their arsenal. This is in addition to many other strong offensive players, including running back Wayne Gallman and wide receiver Artavis Scott.  

The tables are flipped this year for these two closely matched teams; last season, Alabama was 13-1 and Clemson was 14-0. In 2016, the Tigers came up short despite their undefeated record, as ‘Bama has this season. According to the largest betting menu in Vegas, the Westgate SuperBook, the Crimson Tide is favored by a touchdown over Clemson. In the end, it is probable that Alabama will come out on top by a field goal with a final score of 35-32.

Whatever team wins in the end, it is undeniable that this game will be a fun one to watch.