Michigan’s Defense Shines: Key Moments in the Wolverines’ 19-13 Victory Over Alabama

TAMPA, Fla. — Alabama’s football season came to a lackluster end Tuesday as the Crimson Tide fell to the Michigan Wolverines, 19-13, in the ReliaQuest Bowl. For the first time since 2007, Alabama failed to notch a 10-win season, intensifying questions surrounding the program’s future.

Dec 31, 2024; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe (4) runs with the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images / Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

The spotlight now shifts to Alabama’s quarterback situation heading into 2025. Redshirt junior Jalen Milroe, who struggled in the bowl game, holds another year of eligibility but has several paths to consider. He could return to Tuscaloosa, declare for the NFL draft, or test the waters of the transfer portal.

Milroe’s bowl performance left much to be desired. Facing a shorthanded Michigan defense missing key players like Mason Graham and Will Johnson, Milroe took five sacks, threw three turnovers, and completed just 50% of his passes for 192 yards. Adding to the disappointment, he managed only seven rushing yards on 16 carries, contributing to Alabama’s season-low 68 rushing yards overall.

Michigan Defense Shines Amid Predictable Alabama Play

Michigan’s defense appeared to have Alabama’s number, playing with a precision and decisiveness that suggested they knew the Crimson Tide’s plays before the ball was snapped. While they may not have had an exact script, a flaw in Alabama’s fundamentals—particularly in Milroe’s pre-snap stance—gave the Wolverines a significant edge.

Milroe’s foot positioning telegraphed the play type: offset feet indicated a passing play, while parallel feet signaled a run. This tendency neutralized Alabama’s ability to surprise the defense, a critical component of offensive football.

The Wolverines capitalized on this flaw, adjusting their strategy mid-game. Linebackers ignored play-action fakes on passing downs, dropping into coverage to shrink throwing lanes. Similarly, defenders filled run gaps decisively, stifling Alabama’s rushing attack and preventing explosive plays.

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Offensive Struggles Compound Alabama’s Woes

Alabama’s offensive woes extended beyond Milroe’s stance. The Crimson Tide’s 68 rushing yards marked their lowest output of the season, and their passing game failed to make up the difference. It was also the third consecutive game in which Alabama turned the ball over three or more times, compounding their struggles.

Despite Michigan’s personnel absences, the Wolverines’ defense played aggressively, gaining confidence as the game progressed. Milroe’s predictable habits provided validation for their preparation, making it easier to execute their game plan.

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A Crucial Offseason Ahead

As Milroe contemplates his future, whether at Alabama or elsewhere, addressing this fundamental flaw will be paramount. His pre-snap tendencies not only limited his effectiveness but also handed opposing defenses an unnecessary advantage. For Alabama, the offseason represents an opportunity to recalibrate and reclaim their dominance in college football.

With uncertainty looming, one thing is clear: for the Crimson Tide to regain their edge, both the team and its quarterback must adapt.