Clemson fans got some bad news on the day of the National Championship, as the Tigers were in danger of facing Alabama without star cornerback Mackensie Alexander. He was ultimately a game time decision, but took the field after running full speed in warmups.

Missing Alexander for the whole game would've been a blow to the Clemson defense, which is tasked with stopping star Alabama receiver Calvin Ridley and is already dealing with a limiting injury to top defensive end Shaq Lawson. Both Lawson and Alexander are projected first-round NFL Draft picks.

Alexander played in the first half and made the game's first tackle, looking none the worse for wear. But in the second quarter, he had to hit the sideline, and just before half: