The Alabama Crimson Tide put the finishing touches on an undefeated season by beating Ohio State 52-24 on Monday night in Miami.

With the College Football Playoff National Championship Game victory, coach Nick Saban now has 7 total national titles — 6 at Alabama and 1 at LSU.

After the game, Saban was all smiles. He gave credit to his team’s perseverance, touted the senior class and downplayed what it meant to him to pass the legendary Bear Bryant with his seventh title:

On what this title means this season: 

“I think perseverance is probably the one word that describes this team the best in terms of what they’ve had to overcome all season long to go undefeated and win a championship. I’m really so proud of these guys. This is a team that was always together. Everybody bought into all the principles and values of the program. They did a great job. They played together. They supported each other. This is a great team.”

On the senior class and what they meant to the Alabama program:

“A lot of good players. Five that would be here, but aren’t. We won for them, too, because we appreciate what they did for the program. This senior class provided great leadership for this team, as well as great performance. This is great for our fans. This is great for the University of Alabama. We’ve got great support here. This is a great win for these players. I wanted to win this game for these players because this game was all about what they’ve done all year long and I’m just so happy for our team and our players.”

On passing Bear Bryant with 7 national championships:

“I’m just happy that we won tonight. I haven’t really thought about that because you’re always looking forward. I just love this team so much and what they’ve been able to do. I can’t even put it into words.”