Notre Dame vs. Alabama: BCS title game set

The BCS championship game is set for Jan. 7 in Miami after the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide beat the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC title game Saturday. Alabama will face the No. 1 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who finished their season last week with a win over the USC Trojans.

Both teams are built around strong defenses. Alabama led all FBS teams in total defense, allowing just 246 yards per game. Notre Dame (12-0) gave just just 288 yards per game, sixth among all FBS schools.

The Irish, led by linebacker Manti Te'o, a Heisman Trophy candidate, allowed only 10.3 points per game this season, tops in the country. Alabama was second, giving up just 10.7 points per game.

Offensively, both teams are led by potent rushing attacks. Alabama had two running backs gain more than 1,000 yards. Eddie Lacy rushed for 1,182 yards and 16 touchdowns. T.J. Yeldon ran for 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Theo Riddick led Notre Dame with 880 yards rushing and five touchdowns. Cierre Wood ran for 740 yards and four touchdowns.

Alabama opens as 8.5 point favorites over Notre Dame.