Alabama secured the most improbable of its nine SEC titles under Nick Saban by defeating No. 1 Georgia 27-24 in Saturday’s thrilling SEC Championship Game. The victory not only snapped Georgia’s 29-game win streak but also raised a significant national debate: Does it secure Alabama’s spot in the College Football Playoff?
Despite Alabama’s imperfections, showcased in struggles to run the ball and quarterback Jalen Milroe completing just 13-of-23 passes for 192 yards, the Crimson Tide demonstrated resilience when it mattered. The defense stepped up, creating a crucial turnover in the second half and committing only three penalties. Despite a 10-point lead at halftime, Alabama faced a resurgence from Georgia, narrowing the gap to 20-17 in the second half.
Milroe led Alabama on a pivotal nine-play, 75-yard drive, re-establishing a 10-point lead with 5:47 remaining. Though Georgia scored again with 2:52 left, Milroe’s strategic plays, including a 30-yard carry and crucial first down, effectively sealed the game.
Alabama’s impressive resume includes victories over the No. 1, No. 11 (Ole Miss), No. 13 (LSU), and No. 21 (Tennessee) teams in the CFP rankings. However, a 10-point loss to Texas on September 9 complicates matters, as Texas is also 12-1 and the Big 12 champion.
The playoff picture intensifies with Michigan’s potential win over Iowa, joining Washington as unbeaten power conference champions. This leaves three teams for two spots: unbeaten Florida State, Alabama, and Texas. Florida State’s situation is complicated by the absence of starting quarterback Jordan Travis due to a season-ending leg injury.
The decision between Alabama and Texas poses a dilemma for the CFP selection committee. Do they favor Alabama’s stronger overall resume or Texas, which won the head-to-head matchup? Texas is likely to get the nod based on the September win in Bryant-Denny Stadium. Then it will come down to Alabama and Florida State. Will the committee stick to its own criteria of “4 best teams” or will they take the path of least resistance and include an FSU squad that is undefeated, but clearly outmatched. This decision could mark the most controversial in the playoff’s 10-year history.
Alabama’s SEC title win extends its dominance in the Nick Saban era, boasting an impressive 9-1 record in SEC title games. Notably, Georgia has suffered four losses to Alabama during this span. As the SEC undergoes changes in its format, the final four-team playoff could potentially be the first without a member of the SEC. The college football world will be watching.
