He has been dominant all season, but can he take it to another level on Monday night?
This is a thought facing Christian Barmore, as the sophomore defensive lineman for Alabama football has an opportunity to create a massive impact in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Fans of the Crimson Tide are worried about how the defense will perform against a high-powered offense in Ohio State.
Justin Fields was regarded as a five-star for a reason — despite leaving Georgia for the Buckeyes — and Trey Sermon has exploded onto the scene as of late at running back.
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The trio of Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson and Jameson Williams are all good receivers, and Ohio State has averaged 43.4 points per game throughout the campaign. Even with the statistics, the Buckeyes have a problem along its offensive line. It has struggled to keep Fields upright in the pocket, seeing how the junior quarterback has been sacked 20 times.
Regardless of his dual threat abilities, Fields is the second-most sacked quarterback in the CFP — standing behind Ian Book (sacked 25 times) of Notre Dame.
He said he will be good to go versus the Tide, but how effective can Fields be?
The native Georgian played through hurt ribs against Clemson in the Allstate Sugar Bowl.
When discussing Barmore, he shares the lead for sacks at Alabama and in the Southeastern Conference (seven).
The 6-foot-5, 310-pounder has also totaled 7.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback hurries, three pass breakups and three forced fumbles.
He has been on a tear since the Georgia game, and looks to end his sophomore year on a high note.
According to his teammates, Barmore feels like no one can block him or neutralize his ability to pressure quarterbacks. In his desire to show everyone how good the Tide can be on the biggest stage, the Philadelphia (Pa.) native is prepared to have his finest game.
On Friday, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine discussed Barmore and the impact he anticipates having on In My Own Words as the Tide looks for its 18th national title in school history.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith
