Countdown to College Football Kickoff 2015, Day 1: Our picks for number one

Dec 6, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban and his team celebrate with the trophy after the 2014 SEC Championship Game against the Missouri Tigers at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Missouri 42-13. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

Duncan Smith – Staff Writer

Duncan cover the Big Ten for the Blitz, and like many before him, he has Ohio State in his final four. But, he seems to think the Buckeyes’ luck will run out in the playoffs. Follow Duncan on Twitter at @d_smith77

Four Playoff Teams: Ohio State, Alabama, Baylor, USC
National Championship Game: Ohio State vs. Alabama
National Champion: Alabama

"“Alabama’s balance and defense is going to be too much for Ohio State. Not many teams in the NCAA D-I can pick and choose with near equal efficiency between the running and passing attacks, but Alabama can hurt you any way they choose. The Crimson Tide defense has the capacity to lock you down, and if they get out in front of you and have the ability to control the clock, you’re in big trouble. Even if you’re the Ohio State Buckeyes.”"

Next: Jon Adams