Alabama and Michigan, both part of last season’s College Football Playoff, now find themselves in a much different postseason scenario. While Michigan claimed the national title last year, this time the two teams will clash in the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Florida, on Tuesday, looking to salvage underwhelming seasons.
No. 11 Alabama (9-3) narrowly missed out on the new 12-team playoff format, while Michigan (7-5) failed to make the postseason cut entirely—a steep decline for a Wolverines team that defeated Alabama 27-20 in overtime during last season’s CFP semifinal at the Rose Bowl and went on to dominate Washington 34-13 in the championship game.
This year’s New Year’s Eve matchup holds no playoff implications and is more about pride. For Alabama, it’s an opportunity to extend their streak of 10-win seasons to 17 years, a goal that standout guard Tyler Booker has embraced.
“There’s a lot we set out to accomplish this year, and most of those goals are out of reach now,” Booker shared with reporters. “But one goal remains: reaching 10 wins. That’s our focus as we head to Tampa.”
Alabama faces significant challenges in the secondary. All-American safety Malachi Moore is out for the season after undergoing surgery, joining Keon Sabb on the injury list, while safety DeVonta Smith transferred to Notre Dame. Additionally, defensive lineman Damon Payne Jr. and running back Justice Haynes have transferred to Michigan.
Haynes, who rushed for 448 yards as a backup to Jamarion Miller (641 yards), leaves an opening for Richard Young. Head coach Kalen DeBoer expressed confidence in Young, who has 140 yards on 25 carries this season, to step up.
“Richard is ready,” DeBoer said. “He’s a strong, versatile back who’s prepared to make an impact.”
Quarterback Jalen Milroe leads Alabama’s offense with 719 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns, alongside 2,652 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
For Michigan, quarterback Davis Warren faces uncertainty after the Wolverines signed top 2025 recruit Bryce Underwood, who is expected to take over as starting quarterback. While Warren hasn’t entered the transfer portal, he has been in talks with head coach Sherrone Moore about his future.
“Coach Moore has made it clear he wants what’s best for me,” Warren said. “We’ve had honest conversations about my role and future.”
However, Warren’s struggles this season—nine interceptions compared to six touchdowns—haven’t helped his case.
Michigan’s roster will also be depleted, with several players, including Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, Will Johnson, Colston Loveland, and Donovan Edwards, opting out to prepare for the NFL draft.
One player eager for the matchup is defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny, who missed last season’s game against Alabama after breaking his leg in the first quarter.
“This is my national championship,” Benny said, excited for the chance to compete.
Historically, the teams have split their six meetings, with five of those games occurring in bowl matchups. In Tampa, the series is also even, with Alabama winning 17-14 in the 1997 Outback Bowl and Michigan securing a 28-24 victory in the 1988 Hall of Fame Bowl.
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