5 Best Individual Performances of College Football Playoff Semifinals

By Andrew Frosceno

5 Best Individual Performances of College Football Playoff Semifinals

College Football Championship trophy
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

New Year's Eve saw some big-time performances from some big-time players as they pushed their teams into the National Championship game in a little over a week's time. These five performances stood out from the rest and opened up eyes all across the country.

5. Jacob Coker, Alabama

Jacob Coker
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

5. Jacob Coker, Alabama

Jacob Coker
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

The Bama QB was brilliant in their win over Michigan State in the Cotton Bowl semifinal. He was a remarkable 25-of-30 passing for 286 yards and two long touchdown passes. He was a bit more than just a game manager and was surely a big reason why Alabama was able to impose their will.

4. Deshaun Watson, Clemson

Deshaun Watson
Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

4. Deshaun Watson, Clemson

Deshaun Watson
Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Watson's passing numbers of 187 yards, one touchdown and one interception may not impress you, but his rushing numbers will. He rushed for 145 yards on 24 carries and scored a touchdown. His dynamic running ability frustrated Oklahoma all day and will be the key for them to beat Alabama in the title game.

3. Cyrus Jones, Alabama

Cyrus Jones
Mathew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

3. Cyrus Jones, Alabama

Cyrus Jones
Mathew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Jones had a couple of big plays that really set the tone for the Bama beating. He intercepted Connor Cook's pass in the end zone as the Spartans were about to score to end the first half which was the ultimate back-breaker. Then in the third quarter with the score 17-0, he returned a punt 57 yards for the nail in the coffin. Jones' athletic ability will surely be a factor against Clemson.

2. Wayne Gallman, Clemson

Wayne Gallman
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

2. Wayne Gallman, Clemson

Wayne Gallman
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Gallman was huge at running back for the Tigers. He rushed 26 times for 150 yards and two scores. He ran angry all night and really set the tone against the Sooners. The Watson-Gallman combo was really incredible to watch and will need to find some success against Alabama's tough defensive front.

1. Calvin Ridley, Alabama

Calvin Ridley
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

1. Calvin Ridley, Alabama

Calvin Ridley
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Ridley was his remarkable self again against Michigan State, catching eight passes for 138 yards and two long scores. He is scary good for a true freshman and could probably go pro now if permitted. His big play ability will be fun to watch against Clemson's star corner Mackensie Alexander in the title game. Ridley is a true game-breaker.

Share On FacebookShare StumbleUpon

You May Also Like