The Clemson Tigers are undefeated through five games, but face what could be their toughest test until January Tuesday night.

In a tough draw for the ACC-SEC Challenge, Brad Brownell’s team is headed down to take on No. 23 Alabama in Coleman Coliseum. That ranking doesn’t do the Crimson Tide justice coming off a loss to Ohio State last week, especially when it’s the Tigers’ first true road game of the season.

Following Clemson’s win Friday, Brownell previewed the matchup and the opportunity it presents for this team.

“I know Nate (Oats) has done an unbelievable job with their program. They’ve got another very good team. College basketball is really hard right now for all of us, you’re trying to figure your team out…it’s going to be a heck of a game. Great environment, it’s going to be a real challenge for us,” Brownell said.

Taking a look at Alabama, it’s ranked as the No. 8 team in the country on KenPom. That spot is heavily influenced by the No. 1 adjusted offense that Oats’ team features. In every game except the loss to the Buckeyes, the Crimson Tide have scored at least 98 points.

It should be an impressive battle of the guards, as that’s the two leading scorers for Alabama. Mark Sears leads the way with 20.3 points per game on 61% from the field. Aaron Estrada flanks him with 17 points per game on 54.9% shooting.

That’s an absurd assignment for Chase Hunter and Joseph Girard III in their first road game of the year. Brownell’s teams pride themselves on their defense, and that will have to be the case Tuesday night.

If there’s any formula, Ohio State holding the Crimson Tide under 90 and winning is it. With a player like PJ Hall, it’s very possible. He’s having a career year so far now that he’s healthy, averaging 21.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.

Clemson can stamp their place in the national scene with a ranked win, but it’ll take their best. The Tigers and Crimson Tide tip off at 9:30 p.m., televised on ESPN.