So, Who Wins the CFP's Neighborhood Championship Game?

Only the College Football Playoff Selection Committee is putting up a front that this is a legitimate title game.

But this is what we get with a mere four-team playoff.

And the big brand team that didn't win its conference got back on track for one whole game to wind up in Atlanta, playing the team that did win its conference, which happens to be the same conference.

The Committee had a choice, too.

The issue now is what to do for those outside the South to keep it interesting?

Simple.

Open the wallet.

Actually, we strongly suggest hard cash or Bitcoin.

On the surface, Alabama and Georgia match up evenly. More than evenly, in fact, everywhere except the spread:

Incidentally, that line's drifted to Alabama -5 at Bovada, so if you're thinking the Bulldogs, it's time to click their ad on this page and go shopping.

Bet Alabama to Win The 2018 CFP National Championship because …

The Crimson Tide completely shut down top-ranked Clemson in their overpowering 24-6 win in the Sugar Bowl semi-final:

You know, the Tide could be worth that extra point in the spread for how well the 66-year-old Saban can still take a hit.

Alabama got two TD passes from Jalen Hurts in the win but really, it was their overpowering defense that led them to victory.

Dudes harassed Clemson quarterback Kelly Bryant into two costly interceptions and held the Tigers to just 64 rushing yards and 188 total yards of offense in the dominating win.

Bet Georgia to Win The 2018 CFP National Championship because …

The Bulldogs advanced to their first national championship game since 1983 by getting past  Oklahoma, 54-48, in double overtime at the Rose Bowl:

Running back Sonny Michel rushed for a stellar 181 yards and three touchdowns on just 11 carries in the win, while fellow back Nick Chubb added 145 rushing yards and two scores on 14 carries.

While Oklahoma running back Rodney Anderson had a phenomenal game by rushing for a game-high 201 yards and two touchdowns, Georgia limited Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Baker Mayfield to two TD passes and one interception.

So ...

The 2018 national championship game will mark the second time in seven seasons that two teams from the SEC will battle in the national championship.

For the Bulldogs, it is their first shot at the ring since they lost to Penn State in 1983. Georgia’s last championship came back in 1980.

The Crimson Tide will be playing in their third straight title game and sixth in nine seasons. Alabama has gone 4-1 in its five most recent championship games, including that 21-0 whitewash back in 2011.

Here's our CFP Championship ATS Pick ...

For this contest, I’m suggesting you back Alabama to beat Georgia and cover the chalk.

I don’t see a Bulldog offense that relies heavily on its rushing attack being able to have much success on the ground against an Tide defense that won’t be nearly as generous as Oklahoma’s porous defense was in their semi-final matchup.

Then, there's the fact that everyone on that side of the ball has hands. Even Da'Ron Payne:

While Georgia will also likely limit Alabama from running wild, the Tide have the big edge at QB where Hurts is far more dangerous and experienced than Georgia’s Jake Fromm.

If Alabama could shut down a very good Clemson team, I believe that Georgia is in for more of the same.

ATS Pick: Alabama -4

Results: Alabama 26 Georgia 23 ot ... Bulldogs cover

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Sportbet Columnist: Noah Williams

Noah lives and works with a simple philosophy of “Eat, Drink, Football.” This is embodied through a dedication to satellite TV, Indian delivery, Folgers in his cup, and Budweiser. He lives in a secret lair with his beautiful concubine.