Stats don't lie. (sorry alahunter)

Alabama has a clear edge. It ranks No. 15 in scoring offense (38.46 ppg). Notre Dame ranks No. 74 (26.75).

If there is much scoring in this national championship game, perhaps the points will come from kickers.

That's a conclusion one could make from a glance at red-zone statistics.

Alabama's red-zone defense is good, but Notre Dame's is better.

The Crimson Tide has allowed touchdowns at a 52 percent rate when opponents drive inside the 20-yard line (14-27).

The Fighting Irish has allowed touchdowns at a 35 percent rate (8-33). But note that Notre Dame opponents have reached the red zone six more times than Alabama opponents.

Overall, Alabama ranks No. 2 in the nation in red-zone defense (63 percent). That's because it has allowed only three field goals in opponents' opportunities. Foes have come away scoreless 10 times in 27 trips to the red zone.

Notre Dame is tied for No. 3 in the nation in overall red-zone defense. Opponents have kicked 13 field goals after driving inside the Fighting Irish's 20-yard line. Foes have come away scoreless 12 times in 33 trips to the red zone.

Alabama has a decisive edge in red-zone offense. It has one fewer opportunity (57) than Notre Dame (58) but has scored 41 touchdowns (74 percent). The Fighting Irish has scored only 27 touchdowns (47 percent).

Add 19 field goals and Notre Dame ranks No. 75 in red-zone offense overall.

Alabama has 10 red-zone field goals and ranks No. 15 in red-zone offense overall.