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2013 BCS Championship: Notre Dame defense ready for Alabama offensive line

The Alabama offensive line is a potent mix of size, speed, and technique, but Manti Te'o and the Irish defense think they have what it takes to get the better of them.

By Peter Berkes
Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

The Alabama Crimson Tide have consistently had one of the best offensive lines in college football for several years now. That the 2012 group is no different is no surprise to anyone, especially the Notre Dame defense, which has spent the past several weeks breaking them down on film. Linebacker Manti Te'o thinks they have a tough task ahead of them, but says they're up for the job:

"They're very big and they can move," Irish linebacker Manti Te'o said Thursday in Ft. Lauderdale. "They're very physical and we understand that. Just watching them on film ... they're not out there to just shield you, they're out there to drive you back and to try and make the biggest hole they can make. It's going to be a great opportunity for our defense to go against such a great O-line."

The Crimson Tide offensive line is strongest up the middle between center Barrett Jones and guard Chance Warmack. Jones, who won the Outland Award last season as a left tackle, could be the most versatile lineman in the country. However, they're not the only skilled players, as the entire line blocks well in both the running and passing game.

The Fighting Irish and Crimson Tide will face off in the BCS Championship Game on Monday, Jan. 7, in Miami. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, and the game can be seen nationally on ESPN.