LSU brings Home the National Title
The 2019 college football season came to an end on January 7 with the LSU and Clemson Tigers facing off in the National Championship. Both of the teams had undefeated seasons up to Monday. Both teams also had an average scoring margin of 24 points. Clemson was favored going into the game, but LSU was riding a lot of hype and momentum coming off their regular season.
Clemson started the season as the reigning champs, and their sophomore quarterback Trevor Lawrence showed no sign of slowing down. In fact, the entire Clemson team was filled with high level talent, and had the leadership of a proven Dabo Swinney. Clemson did not lose a game during the 12 game regular season, but their weak ACC schedule was a topic of controversy. Only one ranked team, including 0 in the top 10, was included on Clemson's regular season schedule. After beating #23 Virginia in the ACC championship, and leading a comeback thriller against Ohio State in the playoff semifinal, Clemson seemed poised to claim the national title again.
In contrast, LSU had a decent 9 win season in 2018 but nothing close to Clemson’s 15 wins. This year, LSU dominated college football. Graduate transfer QB Joe Burrow, who had a mediocre season last year, clicked with coach Ed Odgerons offensive scheme. Joe Burrow started the season relatively unknown, but ended up winning the Heisman with an unprecedented stat line. LSU steamrolled every team they played including 7 top 10 programs. A 63-28 route of Oklahoma in the playoff semifinal made it seem like this was LSU’s year.
The first half of the game remained close with Clemson maintaining a slight lead, but by half time LSU was ahead. Clemson managed to score a touchdown in the 3rd quarter and bring the score to 25-28. However, they failed to keep LSU from scoring so LSU was allowed a commanding lead again. LSU brought the first national title to Baton Rouge since 2007 and Joe Burrow solidified himself as a Louisiana legend. Joe Burrow also finished his season with 60 Td’s making him the new record holder for single season touchdowns. Next year, Joe Burrow will be heading to the NFL, as well as other top LSU talents. Clemson on the other hand will still have Trevor Lawrence. When the national championship comes around next year, Clemson will likely have a chance to win the title again. Unfortunately for Clemson, nothing is ever certain in college football.