For the first time in 35 years, the Clemson Tigers are college football’s national champion.

Clemson scored on a 2-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Deshaun Watson to wide receiver Hunter Renfrow with one second remaining to defeat Alabama 35-31 in the College Football Playoff championship game Monday night.

Watson, a native of Gainesville, Ga., passed for three touchdowns and rushed for another as the Tigers recovered from an early 14-point deficit for the victory.

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Former Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Norman Arey died Oct. 11, 2025 at the age of 84. In addition to sports writing, Arey also co-wrote the popular "Peach Buzz" society column. (Courtesy of the Arey family)

Credit: Courtesy of the Arey family

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Members of the conversion crew take a break as the main scoreboard is lowered to the floor to be worked on as the arena gets ready for the next concert at State Farm Arena, Thursday, October 2, 2025, in Atlanta. The crew was working on creating a stage for the Friday, Oct. 3 Maxwell concert. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com