The Alabama Crimson Tide claimed a second national championship in three years, Monday night.

No. 2 Alabama beat No. 1 LSU 21-0 -- the first shut out in Bowl Championship Series history.

Alabama's defense was dominant throughout the game. LSU didn't even cross the 50 yard line until within the last eight minutes of the game.

The Tigers won the first game against Alabama Nov. 5 in overtime.

Many college football fans didn't think Alabama deserved a second shot at rival LSU, but BCS voters felt otherwise.

"This team was a special team," Alabama head coach Nick Saban said after the win. "And certainly an honor and a privilege to be with a group that made the kind of commitment that you look for from a competitive character standpoint and intangibles that you always strive to try to get as a coach."

Alabama is now tied with Notre Dame for the most times to receive a No. 1 ranking in the final poll of the season conducted by the Associated Press.

Saban said this win was about his players and their fans -- especially those in Tuscaloosa.

Residents there were devastated last spring by a deadly tornado that ripped the city apart.