The Chippewas entered their game against Alabama looking to continue their dynasty. The Chippewas had a chance to win their fourth consecutive National Championship and cement their legacy as one of the best in the history of college football. The two teams had been #1 and #2 in the country sine week 4 of the season. CMU jumped into the #1 spot for one week before Alabama reclaimed that spot. There was no doubt these were the two best teams in the country, but who would come out victorious was a nationwide debate.

The Crimson Tide were appearing in the first National Championship since 2012. Alabama set the tone early and looked like they would give CMU a run for their money. Alabama would score less than 30 seconds into the game on their opening drive. An Aaron Smith interception would lead to another Alabama TD and the Chippewas found themselves trailing 14-0 less that 1:30 into the game. The Chippewa faithful fell silent hoping for some life from their team. Smith would rebound from his interception and lead CMU down the field to cut the lead to 14-7.

The two teams would struggle to find the endzone until midway through the 2nd quarter. Smith found his WR streaking down the field and hit him with a long pass for the 60 yard TD. Sensing that his team has the momentum, Carlson called for the two point conversion and Smith found the endzone with his legs for two points to put CMU out front 15-14. CMU continued to keep their foot on the gas as they scored 21 more points to pull out to a 36-14 lead. Alabama would add a late 4th quarter TD to cut the lead to 14 at 36-22. A Gatorade soaked Carlson was ecstatic after the win. "This is truly a special moment for everyone at Central Michigan. To win four championships in a row is something I never imagined could happen. These kids give us everything they got all season and it's paid off again. You may think it gets old, but it never does. There's nothing like winning a championship." Many wonder if this may be the year that Carlson leaves for another opportunity. The 5th year coach only has 2 more seasons left on his deal and is yet to sign an extension. His success has led to interest from the NFL and many think it's only a matter of time. The Detroit Lions are one of many NFL teams who are very interested in Carlson's services. The chance to coach at the highest level for your hometown team may be too much to turn down.

Much of the post game attention was focused on Heisman winning QB Aaron Smith. Smith was named the winner of the Heisman Trophy for the 2nd consecutive year and has now won three National Championships with CMU. Smith is highly considered to be the #1 QB if he enters the draft, but Smith was not interested in discussing his next step after the game. "I'm not thinking about that at all. I'm enjoying this win with my teammates. What we did tonight was special and it's never been done before. I'll sit down with my family in a few weeks and decide what's best for my future at that point." It would certainly make sense for Smith to enter the draft as he has accomplished almost everything he can at the collegiate level, but Smith has made it known in the past that he would like to finish his degree before heading to the NFL.

Smith struggled in the pass game as the tough Alabama defense caused some issues for the QB. He finished 14 of 26 passing for 210 yards with 3 TD's and 3 INT's. He was able to make up for the passing game with his legs as he rushed for 153 yards and 2 TD's. Senior WR Jake Harris caught 4 passes for 105 yards and 1 TD. Nick Holley and Ryan Mcrae each caught 1 TD pass as well.

The Chippewas 14-0 (10-0) finish as the #1 team in the country.