Clemson vs. Alabama: How do Hollywood alumni of the CFP combatants match up?
It may seem like Monday's national title game between Clemson and Alabama has been analyzed from every possible angle, but what about a matchup between alumni who became famous off the field?
Not everyone listed graduated, but all these Hollywood entertainers attended one of the two schools.
Let's break down the 3-on-3 matchup:
Clemson
1. Dolph Lundgren
Before becoming famous for his portrayal of Ivan Drago in "Rocky IV," Lundgren studied chemistry at Clemson. The Swedish-born actor is an accomplished martial artist who's also starred in films including "Universal Soldier," "The Expendables," and "The Punisher."
2. Nancy O'Dell
Nobody personifies entertainment quite like O'Dell. The 49-year-old was a mainstay on "Access Hollywood" for years before making the jump to "Entertainment Tonight." Prior to her broadcasting career, the South Carolina native graduated Clemson with a degree in marketing. There's no doubting her passion about the Tigers, as O'Dell is on hand in Arizona for the game.
3. James Michael Tyler
The actor famous for playing Gunther on "Friends," known for his obsession with Jennifer Aniston's character Rachel Green, quickly became America's favorite coffee shop employee. Prior to his acting career, Tyler graduated from Clemson with a degree in geology.
Alabama
1. Jim Nabors
The Alabama native played the iconic Gomer Pyle on "The Andy Griffith Show" before launching a successful spinoff featuring his own character. Prior to starring as Pyle, Nabors, now 85, attended Alabama and began his acting career in university-run skits.
2. Debra Marshall
No last name is needed for the WWE Diva known as Debra. During her time with the WWE, she managed names such as Jeff Jarrett, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, and The Rock. Prior to joining the wrestling circuit, Marshall attended Alabama, and recently returned to the school to pursue a master's in criminal justice.
3. Sela Ward
Before she became famous for the '90s drama "Sisters" and roles in movies such as "The Fugitive," "My Fellow Americans," "The Day After Tomorrow," and "Gone Girl," this actress was actually a Crimson Tide cheerleader and homecoming queen. Double-majoring in fine art and advertising, there's no doubt who Ward will be rooting for in Monday's game.
Verdict
After much deliberation, the nod has to go to Clemson. While Nabors is an American icon, the powerful combination of Lundgren and O'Dell is too much to overlook. The Tigers claim victory - and hope to see a similar result in Monday's big contest.