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Thursday Insider Report for the Championship Game

He was supposed to be the weak link, the player Clemson picked on through the air. Instead, Alabama safety Deionte Thompson was an inspiration to the rest of the Crimson Tide’s secondary.

With starting strong safety Hootie Jones out with a season-ending knee injury, Thompson made his first career start during Monday night’s Sugar Bowl against Clemson. The redshirt sophomore didn’t miss a beat, filling in flawlessly while helping the Crimson Tide to a 24-6 victory over the Tigers and third straight appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Following the win, Alabama cornerback Levi Wallace used a list of words to describe Thompson’s play on the night — “weak” and “inexperienced” weren’t included.

“Exceptional. Very driven, focused,” Wallace said. “You know, he got me motivated before the game because he plays with such heart. I’m really proud of that guy, he did a great job today.”