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It should be no surprise that Alabama's defense, widely considered the best in college football, came ready to play against Clemson in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

The Tide also came ready to send a message.

Linebacker Reuben Foster put a brutal clothesline on Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson during the Tigers' first offensive drive of the game ...

Foster was flagged with a personal foul penalty while some thought the hit should have been considered targeting. Either way, that's the type of penalty Alabama is willing to live with. Foster sent a message that could potentially shake Watson for the rest of the game. Fifteen yards is something the coaches will take as a result.