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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Georgia Southern accepted a berth to the Birmingham Bowl, but it is still awaiting an opponent. According to reports, no one has accepted an invitation yet. (Sarah Peacock for the AJC)

Credit: Sarah Peacock

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Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez