25 brilliant photos from Alabama's thrilling victory over Clemson

Ross D. Franklin/AP

Alabama surged past Clemson on Monday night to capture the college football national championship, 45-40.

The win gave Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban his fourth title in the past seven years and the fifth of his illustrious career.

Tightly contested from the opening kickoff, the game was ultimately decided by a series of big plays for Alabama late in the 4th quarter, including a surprise onside kick and a 95-yard kickoff return touchdown.

The pictures lived up to the quality of the play. Here are 25 of the best from the Associated Press and Getty Images.