TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Head coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide runs off the field after the first half of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

ESPN analyst says there's only one team 'that can stand toe-to-toe with Alabama' this year

There is a team!

No. 1 Alabama and No. 3 Florida State are set to play in one of the most historic opening weekend games in college football history. It's supposed to be a pretty even game as OddsShark.com lists Alabama as a touchdown favorite for the game being played in Atlanta. ESPN's Phil Steele was on WJOX's Opening Drive radio show to make his prediction for the game and gave the Seminoles some pretty high praise:

He stole chose the Crimson Tide by a field goal, but that's probably going to be the closest anyone comes to beating them this year. FSU is expected to have a great defense because of potential darkhorse Heisman candidate Derwin James and fifth-year senior linebacker Matthew Thomas. The offense should also be solid despite the loss of Dalvin Cook to the NFL Draft thanks to improved quarterback play from Deondre Francois and hopefully improved offensive line play as well.

[h/t Saturday Down South]