THE STAKES
For Alabama ... Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are looking to bounce back from a 31-20 loss to Florida in the SEC Championship Game. It was the lone blemish on Alabama's record this season.
For Utah ... The Utes are on pace to make history. They're one victory away from finishing the season as the nation's only undefeated team. In addition, a 13-win season would be a school record.
THE TRENDS
For Alabama ... The Crimson Tide are making their 13th appearance in the Sugar Bowl (tying LSU for the most), but their first since defeating Miami (Fla.) for the national championship in 1993.
For Utah ... The Utes are on a 7-0 bowl roll. They haven't lost a postseason game since 1996. Bowl victories have come over Fresno State, USC, Southern Miss, Pitt, Georgia Tech, Tulsa and Navy.
THE EDGE
Alabama will win if ... the Crimson Tide are able to dominate the line of scrimmage. Their physical style of play and size could control the tempo both offensively and defensively.
Utah will win if ... the Utes continue to do what it takes to continue the nation's longest active win streak (13 games). Slowing Alabama's run-oriented offense will be pivotal in this one.
INJURY REPORT
For Alabama: Outland Trophy winner Andre Smith broke the hearts of many Crimson Tide fans with his suspension for violating team rules.
For Utah: Starting stud linebacker Nai Fotu will not play after suffering a season-ending knee injury in the 48-24 victory over BYU on Nov. 22.
PLAYER TO WATCH
Alabama running back Glen Coffee is the 11th-leading rusher in the nation with 1,347 yards, the fourth-highest, single-season total in Crimson Tide history. He has scored 10 touchdowns this season.
KEY MATCHUP
Alabama receiver Julio Jones vs. Utah cornerback Sean Smith: The Utes' chances of pulling the upset will be greatly enhanced if the shutdown corner is able to slow down the talented freshman. It would force the Crimson Tide to run the ball more, something Utah has defended well.
NO. 6 UTAH (12-0) VS. NO. 4 ALABAMA (12-1)
SUGAR BOWL
Today, 6:17 p.m. — Louisiana Superdome — TV: Ch. 13 Radio: 700 AM, ESPN