As Clemson and Alabama prepare to face off in the College Football Playoff championship on Monday (7:30 p.m., ESPN), you as a Chicago fan might be asking, “What’s in it for me?”
That’s a fair question considering that neither team is from the Midwest and neither has a player on its roster from the Chicago area. But there are plenty of reasons for Chicagoans to be emotionally invested in Monday’s main event.
ROOT FOR CLEMSON IF …
You love the ’85 Bears
Super Bowl champs and former Bears Steve Fuller and William “The Refrigerator” Perry both played at Clemson. (As did current Bears defensive lineman Jarvis Jenkins; no 1985 Bears or players on Chicago’s current roster are Alabama alums.) BTW, let’s hope the Fridge has a speedy recovery from a recent leg infection.
You believe pizza binds us
When Clemson qualified for the College Football Playoff, coach Dabo Swinney invited fans into the team’s stadium for a rally that included free pizza. Although you could deduct points because it wasn’t deep-dish, Swinney clearly gets Chicago, whether he knows it or not.
You feel bad for the Big Ten
Alabama made easy work of Wisconsin and then Michigan State this season, obliterating the latter 38-0 in a College Football Playoff semifinal. If you hold a grudge to honor your Big Ten brethren—or simply can’t stand the Southeastern Conference—the Tigers are your last hope to restore a bit of dignity to the Midwest.
ROOT FOR ALABAMA IF …
You love dynasties
The Crimson Tide are the Blackhawks of college football, having won three of their 13 national titles in the past seven years (2009, 2011, 2012). By the NCAA’s count, Alabama also won six championships under legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, who got his nickname because he agreed to wrestle a bear as a teenager. Doesn’t get any tougher than that, folks.
You’re concerned for the Bears’ future
As usual, Alabama’s defense is loaded with potential first-round draft picks, in particular linebackers and defensive linemen. The Bears need help in both areas. Remember these names: defensive linemen A’Shawn Robinson, Jonathan Allen and Jarran Reed and linebacker Reggie Ragland. (Note: It would also be cool if Clemson defensive lineman Shaq Lawson ended up with the Bears, if only for his awesome name.)
You’re the jealous type
Clemson recently announced plans to build a $55 million football complex that features a miniature golf course, laser tag, sand volleyball courts and a 24-seat HD theater. However, it will be available only to football players and staff, which seems terribly unfair. Rooting for Alabama might make you feel like you’re supporting the “little” guy.
Chris Sosa is RedEye’s sports editor. @redeyesportschi
