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Bowl season is officially upon us and predictions are starting to pour in.
On Wednesday, the staff over at 247Sports gave their thoughts on Alabama and Michigan’s Rose Bowl matchup in the College Football Playoff semifinal. And it’s sounding like a split-decision.
Writes CFB writer Chris Hummer:
These are the two best teams in the Playoff in my opinion. This is a championship-worthy matchup. Early in the year Michigan would’ve had a major advantage because of Alabama’s weakness up front offensively. That’s shifted some late in the year. … If I had a question about the Wolverines, it’s how to their WRs matchup with an excellent Alabama secondary. … It could be a long day for Michigan’s offense. But I’m sticking with my gut here. I’ve thought the Wolverines were the best team in the country all season, and I think they break through to the national title game. … Michigan 31, Alabama 28.
Here’s a look at @BCrawford247 ’s & @chris_hummer ’s New Year’s Six predictions. 🏈
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Brad Crawford, however, sees it differently.
The Crimson Tide are my pick to win the national championship this season given their hot streak to end the month and I’m not convinced Michigan’s defense will be able to withstand the onslaught brought on by Jalen Milroe. He’s the most talented quarterback Michigan has faced since last season’s Playoff … and you saw what happened in that scenario. Jim Harbaugh would love to avoid an 0-3 Playoff record, but I don’t think it’s going to happen against the No. 4 seed. … Alabama 31, Michigan 24.
No. 1 Michigan enters the game as 1.5-point favorites over Nick Saban’s 12-1 Bama squad. It should be a fun one on New Year’s night.