1/11/2016 National Championship, Alabama v Clemson, University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

5 years ago...

January 11, 2016 - Glendale, AZ

In the first National Championship game resulting from the new College Football Playoff, the Crimson Tide of Alabama defeats the Clemson Tigers 45-40 at University of Phoenix Stadium.

This championship game was held in addition to the annual Fiesta Bowl which was played in the same stadium just 11 days prior.  There was a lot of future NFL talent on display, as 30 of the 44 starters on both teams were drafted including nine first-round picks.

Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry ran for 158 yards and 3 TDs.  Clemson QB Deshaun Watson, a Heisman finalist himself, threw for nearly 500 yards in setting the record for a national championship game.

I had been fortunate to attend the seven National Championship games held in Arizona from 1987 thru 2011, but had no tickets for the eighth, a high-demand event.  Channeling positive mojo, karma kicked in and I won VIP tickets from Nissan, sponsor behind the Heisman House ad campaign, and Arizona Sports 98.7 FM.  In addition to the game, we were provided tickets for the VIP Tailgate party and a tour of the on-site Heisman House.

An all-day affair, we enjoyed the complimentary buffet, many hosted beverages and an Eric Chuch concert on the Great Lawn adjacent to University of Phoenix Stadium.  Heisman House offered some photo opportunities and the history of the award and its recipients.

When I picked up the tickets, I had to sign IRS paperwork as the station reports prized that total over $600 in a calendar year.  A year later, I received a 1099-MISC for $2,100 for this package!  Yikes.

Yes, it was worth it.







                                            






 

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