Michigan and Alabama are gearing up for another postseason showdown. Join us for all of the action right here on today’s Game Thread:
Michigan and Alabama are set to face off in the postseason once again, but under vastly different circumstances in 2024. Last year, these two powerhouses clashed in the Rose Bowl as part of the College Football Playoff. This time, they’ll meet in the ReliaQuest Bowl, with both teams looking to end their seasons on a high note after falling short of a playoff run.
Alabama enters the game as the heavy favorite, with oddsmakers showing little faith in Michigan’s ability to keep up offensively. The Wolverines’ attack has struggled to find consistency, a concern that will only be magnified without the aid of Colston Loveland, Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards.
The key question heading into this matchup is whether Michigan can rise to the occasion and defy expectations. Will the Wolverines’ defense step up, or will Alabama’s Jalen Milroe take center stage and expose Michigan’s offensive limitations?
Game Info
Teams: Michigan Wolverines vs No. 11 Alabama Crimson Tide
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2023
Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Kickoff: Noon ET
Television: ESPN
Spread: Michigan +13.5; O/U: 43.5
Today’s question: Can the Wolverines contain Jalen Milroe?
Slowing down Milroe will be Michigan’s biggest challenge in this game. Milroe’s dual-threat ability has been a nightmare for defenses all season, combining explosive speed with a strong arm that can stretch the field. For the Wolverines, containing him means not only limiting his rushing lanes, but also pressuring him into mistakes when he drops back to throw.
While Michigan’s defense has been a force against the run this year, the absence of Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant and Josaiah Stewart leaves some major gaps to fill. Stepping up in their place will be TJ Guy, Derrick Moore and Rayshaun Benny, who will need to bring their best performances yet. The Wolverines will have to find ways to disrupt Milroe’s rhythm and force Alabama into uncomfortable situations without their stars along the defensive line.