The Michigan Wolverines concluded 2024 with a resounding victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the ReliaQuest Bowl, mirroring their triumphant start to the year. The 19-13 victory at Raymond James Stadium on New Year’s Eve capped off a three-game winning streak for Michigan, which notably included a dominant performance against arch-rival Ohio State. This win marked a historic achievement for the Wolverines, signifying the first time any college football program has defeated Alabama twice within the same calendar year. It echoed their previous triumph over the Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day 2024, a game that propelled Michigan to the national championship and ultimately led to the departure of key figures like coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback J.J. McCarthy to the NFL.
The ReliaQuest Bowl victory served as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Michigan program under new leadership. While the departure of Harbaugh and McCarthy undoubtedly left a void, the team rallied under their successors and maintained their winning momentum. The win against Alabama also highlighted the strength of Michigan’s defense, a unit now marshalled by former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. Martindale’s influence was evident in the aggressive and disruptive defensive performance, which effectively neutralized Alabama’s offensive threats throughout the game.
For Alabama, the 2024 season ended on a disappointing note, culminating in their second loss to Michigan within the same year. The Crimson Tide, under the direction of head coach Kalen DeBoer, entered the ReliaQuest Bowl as favorites, carrying the weight of their exclusion from the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff. Despite their status as favorites, Alabama’s offense struggled to gain traction against Michigan’s relentless defense. Quarterback Jalen Milroe faced consistent pressure, resulting in five sacks and three turnovers.
The game unfolded as a defensive battle, with Michigan’s offense methodically accumulating points through the accurate kicking of Dominic Zvada, who connected on four field goals. A first-half touchdown pass from Davis Warren to Fredrick Moore provided an additional offensive spark for the Wolverines. However, it was ultimately Michigan’s defensive prowess that sealed the victory, consistently thwarting Alabama’s attempts to mount a comeback.
The final drive of the game encapsulated Alabama’s offensive struggles. Facing a fourth-and-10 situation in the red zone, Milroe was unable to convert, solidifying Michigan’s victory. Milroe’s overall performance reflected the challenges posed by Michigan’s defense, finishing the game with 192 passing yards, one touchdown, and an interception on 16 of 32 completions. The Wolverines’ defensive dominance limited Alabama’s offensive opportunities and ultimately secured the win.
The contrasting fortunes of Michigan and Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl underscored the shifting landscape of college football. Michigan’s ability to overcome the loss of key personnel and maintain their winning trajectory highlighted the program’s depth and adaptability. Conversely, Alabama’s struggles, culminating in their second defeat to Michigan in a single year, raised questions about their offensive consistency and their ability to compete against elite defenses. The game served as a fitting end to the 2024 college football season, showcasing the evolving dynamics of the sport and the emergence of new contenders.
