A Salina native has a national championship for the second time in three years.

Clemson rolled past Alabama Monday night to become the new king of college football with a 44-16 win over the defending champions in the National Championship Game.

Clemson’s defense, under Salina native Brent Venables, smothered Alabama all night. The defense set the tone early, returning an interception for a touchdown on Alabama’s third play from scrimmage.

On the other side of the ball the offense rolled over the Crimson Tide. Trevor Lawrence passed for 347 yards and three touchdowns to lead the second-ranked Tigers to their second national title in three seasons. Justyn Ross caught six balls for 153 yards and a score for Clemson, which shut out ‘Bama after leading 31-16 at the half. Clemson finishes 15-and-0, while Alabama ends its season 14-and-1.

Clemson is the first team to finish 15 – 0 in the modern era.

Venables, a graduate of Salina South High School, is considered to be one of the best defensive minds in the country, at any level.

(photo via Clemson University)