In the final year of the current four-team format, the College Football Playoff has entered its thrilling stage with Alabama, Michigan, Texas, and Washington emerging as the last four contenders. As the anticipation builds, football fans across the nation eagerly await the outcome of these riveting matchups.

The National Championship Game, set to take place on New Year's Day, will feature a clash between perennial powerhouse Alabama and the resurgent Michigan Wolverines in the Rose Bowl. Meanwhile, the Sugar Bowl will see the Texas Longhorns, making their first-ever playoff appearance, facing off against the underdog Washington Huskies.

Alabama, though not fielding their strongest team under head coach Nick Saban, will undoubtedly prove a formidable opponent. Balancing their abilities across all aspects of the game, the Crimson Tide rely on quarterback Jalen Milroe and a skilled receiving corps. However, Alabama lacks the explosive playmaking ability that former quarterback Bryce Young possessed. Nevertheless, Coach Saban's expertise may compensate for any shortcomings and keep the Crimson Tide in the championship hunt.

Defensively, Alabama has felt the absence of impact player Will Anderson Jr. on the defensive line. However, the Tide still boast a formidable pass rush, led by Dallas Turner, Chris Braswell, and Justin Eboigbe, alongside promising talent Kool-Aid McKinstry. While this Alabama team may not match the dominance of previous years, underestimating Coach Saban's ability to guide his team would be unwise.

Texas, long considered a football punchline, has finally roared back to prominence. The Longhorns secured their playoff berth with an impressive 12-1 record, including a statement win against Alabama earlier in the season. Led by dynamic quarterback Quinn Ewers, Texas possesses a potent offense that boasts a talented receiving corps featuring Adonai Mitchell, Xavier Worthy, and tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders.

Defensively, the Longhorns shine as they boast the best defense in the Big 12 and a formidable rushing defense. Anchored by T'Vondre Sweat, a dominant defensive tackle, Texas presents a challenge to any opponent's ground game. Lighter defensive boxes have allowed the Longhorns' linebackers to flourish, making them a threat against Washington's explosive passing attack.

Michigan's journey to the College Football Playoff has been a roller coaster ride, marked by suspensions and controversy. Despite these obstacles, the Wolverines have shown remarkable resilience, stringing together victories through various means. Coach Jim Harbaugh's team can win with quarterback J.J. McCarthy's arm, a potent rushing attack, or a stifling defense. This versatility makes them a daunting opponent for any team.

Washington, once again cast as the underdogs, has defied expectations throughout the season. Emerging victorious in seven one-score games and triumphing over ranked opponents, the Huskies have proven their mettle. Possessing an explosive offense led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and star receiver Rome Odunze, Washington presents a challenge similar to that of Oklahoma, a team that handed Texas one of its few defeats this season.

As the stage is set for these thrilling matchups, football fans brace themselves for an unforgettable finale to the College Football Playoff. With pedigreed programs like Alabama and Michigan facing off against the surging underdogs Texas and Washington, the battle for the national championship promises to be a captivating affair. The countdown to New Year's Day begins, as the fate of these four teams hangs in the balance.