Products You May Like
After a lengthy break in between games, it is now officially time for the Alabama Crimson Tide to take the field for the final time this season for a matchup against the Michigan Wolverines in the ReliaQuest Bowl.
Two of the premier brands in college football, Alabama and Michigan met a year ago in the College Football Playoff Semifinal, and now find themselves meeting once again this season in a bowl game.
So, before the Crimson Tide and Wolverines square off Tuesday afternoon, each member of our Roll Tide Wire staff make their pick as to who wins the ReliaQuest Bowl, while also offering a few thoughts on the game.
Matt’s Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 37, Michigan Wolverines 17
When it comes to a potential difference maker in this contest, Alabama will certainly have the advantage when it comes to putting points on the board offensively. Because of this, I’m going with Alabama to come away with a victory to avenge last seasons CFP loss, as Michigan will simply not be able to keep up on the scoreboard.
Steve’s Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 38, Michigan Wolverines 14
Alabama avoided the opt-out bug for the second time in three years and will have most of its stars from the 2024 regular season in Tampa for this season’s rematch with Michigan. Jalen Milroe, Jihaad Campbell, Tyler Booker and others will look to have big games to improve their NFL Draft stock. On the other side, Michigan will be without cornerback Will Johnson, tight end Colston Loveland and defensive tackles Kenneth Grant and Mason Graham who opted out for draft purposes.
Remember, there’s also some pride at stake here for Alabama, who hopes to extend its streak of 10-win seasons to 17 straight years. I’m curious to see how Ty Simpson looks — assuming he gets to play — as Alabama’s likely starting QB going into next season. Kalen DeBoer closes out his first season in Tuscaloosa on a good note.
Sam’s Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 38, Michigan Wolverines 21
A season ago, the Michigan Wolverines ended the Alabama Crimson Tide’s national title hopes in one of the most exciting Rose Bowl’s ever. Alabama is a much more talented team in 2024, but after missing out on the playoffs there is always a chance of a bowl game hangover. But with it likely being Jalen Milroe’s final game for the Crimson Tide and the majority of draft eligible guys dressing, I think we are going to see an Alabama team play one of their games of the season.
This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Roll Tide Wire staff predictions for Alabama vs. Michigan in ReliaQuest Bowl