Clemson football: 3 reasons Tigers win 2019 National Championship

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ARLINGTON, TEXAS – DECEMBER 29: Clelin Ferrell #99 and Christian Wilkins #42 of the Clemson Tigers react after a play in the first half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the College Football Playoff Semifinal Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium on December 29, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

2. Pressure from the Tigers’ defense

The Tigers defensive line has been arguably the best in the country since Week 1. Ohio State had talent, led by Nick Bosa, but once he withdrew from school the closest comparison is arguably Alabama.

Quinnen Williams has been a draft darling as he shoots up boards with his excellent play, but Clelin Ferrell and Christian Wilkins have been dynamic for Clemson all season long. Dexter Lawrence may be able to suit up in the national championship game pending his appeal, but even if he isn’t the Tigers are in excellent shape.

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Ferrell and dominated the Fighting Irish offensive line all game long, as he ended the game with four tackles and a sack. Austin Bryant also made Ian Book’s game a nightmare finishing with six tackles and two sacks.

Both offensive lines they will face feature future NFL talent, but can they collectively block this front four? It would surprise a lot of Tigers fans if that happened.

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