This 2021 college football season has been one of the most unique years in the history of college football. A non-power-five team made the playoffs for the first time. The Cincinnati Bearcats shocked the college football world when they played previously undefeated and high ranked Notre Dame and defeated them by double digits. Cincinnati remains undefeated and their coach, Luke Fickle, won coach of the year. The Bearcats are going to be challenged by the number one team in the country, Alabama, in the Cotton Bowl.
Alabama has dominated college football for another year. Nick Saban led his team to another SEC championship, earning the first seed in the College Football Playoff. Alabama’s quarterback, Bryce Young, won the Heisman award and has been picking apart defenses all season. Alabama embarrassed a Georgia defense, who was considered to be the best in the country.
Michigan and Jim Harbaugh have proved themselves to be true contenders. Ever since the former NFL coach joined the Wolverines, the organization has been the laughing stock of college football. Michigan failed to beat Ohio State ever since Jim joined as head coach. However, this year, Michigan hosted the Buckeyes and defeated them effortlessly. The Wolverines dominated the game and earned the second seed in the College Football Playoff. The Wolverines will face the Georgia Bulldogs in the semi-final of the playoffs. Both teams enter the game with a 12-1 record on the season.
On January 10, 2022 the winner of the semi final games will play each other in the final in Indianapolis, Indiana. I believe that the final will be Michigan vs. Alabama. Michigan has had an overpowering defense all year. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was a Heisman candidate and has broken records at Michigan. The Wolverines defense will limit the weak Georgia offense. Additionally, Alabama will destroy Cincinnati. I predict that this game will be won by over 20 points.
In regards to the final, I believe Alabama will win another championship. Michigan does not have a strong enough offense to defeat the Crimson Tide. Alabama’s run defense is dominant and will stop Hassan Haskins. Also, Michigan’s air game is weak and has not established itself throughout the season. Bryce Young will lead the Crimson Tide to Nick Saban’s eighth national championship win. My predilection is that Alabama will win 41-17.
While this season will be remembered as abnormal, the winner will be the same team, Alabama. College football is not going to change anytime soon. Teams like Alabama will continue to dominate the sport due to the recruiting process. Let’s see how my prediction pans out.
Thomas Gluckow
Staff Writer
Graphic: Sarah Jeong