I'll say it: this one doesn't count

It's not the acceptable thing to say. You never know what would have happened. Alabama would have played differently too. The what if game is futile and folly. Whatever.

The above is all true. Sure. But Texas would have won with Colt. Period. I'm not trying to be unfair to Alabama. Injuries are a part of the game and they fairly get the title according to the rules but they did not earn it. Earning it would have involved playing against Colt for an entire game. There is no doubt it's different. Gilbert played admirable given the circumstances and very well may outplay McCoy over the course of his career but the difference in experience for a redshirt senior and true freshman is light years in college football. Period. The game is different.


They won't admit it but they know it too

The defense plays outstanding. The only lapses come late in the first half after being on the field for almost the entire half. With any time sustained on offense at all, they hold tight like they did in the second half. The game is different. In their heart of hearts, Alabama knows it too.

That doesn't matter because they get the trophy and rightfully so. But that doesn't make it right. And don't tell me you never know what would have happened because I do. We all do and we were all cheated.