Alabama was picked as the other half of the match-up following an 11–1 campaign, with their only loss coming against LSU in overtime during the regular season.

The selection of Alabama was controversial, and decried by writers such as Rick Reilly, and by fans who claimed other opponents, most prominently the Oklahoma State Cowboys (who finished second in most of the computer rankings), were more deserving of a spot in the game.

The controversy lent support to the ever-increasing call for a college football playoff and supposed SEC bias, specifically with regard to Alabama.

As a result of the matchup, the SEC's streak of producing the BCS champion was assured of extending to six straight seasons.

Key players for the Crimson Tide were RB Trent Richardson (164.67 yards per game, 1583 rushing yards), OT Barrett Jones (Outland Trophy recipient), LB Courtney Upshaw (17 tackles for losses and 8.5 sacks), and S Mark Barron (66 total tackles, 42 solos).

The Tigers fumbled the ball on the opening play and ultimately ended up punting the football to Alabama after failing to gain a first down.