Clemson's Mike Williams savoring title game opportunity after last year's injury

Clemson will be hoping to avenge last year's loss to Alabama in the national title game, and the Tigers will have another weapon at their disposal this time around.

Junior receiver Mike Williams, who missed the game a year ago due to a neck injury, is coming into the contest after catching 90 passes and 10 touchdowns on the season.

Those numbers will likely lead him to the NFL, where his quarterback believes he is in for a great career.

"He’s gonna kill it (in the NFL)," Deshaun Watson told George Schroeder of USA TODAY Sports. "He’s gonna take it to another level."

Before that happens, though, Williams will turn his attention to beating the Crimson Tide. The Tigers lost 45-40 without Williams available last time around, so it's scary to think what they could accomplish against Alabama's defense with him.

"Mike Williams is a difference-maker," said Clemson co-offensive coordinator Jeff Scott. "He makes us complete. We have everything we need. Mike’s physical presence, his ability to win one-on-one matchups, it keeps defenses honest."

Williams may have to be against this version of Nick Saban's defense. Alabama has been suffocating on that side of the ball this year, scoring 11 defensive touchdowns.

Williams, though, is just thankful to get the opportunity to play in such a big game after losing last year because of the neck injury.

"It was scary," he said. "But I’m good now. I want to take advantage of every opportunity. I appreciate the game more. I wanted to be a part of it last year. Unfortunately, I was hurt. To be a part of it again is a special moment."