The rematch of the Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl should be a mismatch. Oddsmakers have Alabama Football as a solid two touchdown favorite. The general mood among Wolverine fans is glum, with one Michigan expert predicting an Alabama Crimson Tide blowout win.
There are several reasons why Alabama is a big favorite in predictions for the game. The Wolverines have had a tough season, slumping to 7-5 after winning last season's National Championship. If not for Michigan's upset win over Ohio State, Michigan first-year head coach Sherrone Moore might not have been retained for a second season.
Michigan's bowl roster will be minus key players opting out to not risk injury to their NFL Draft viability. Three of them are possible NFL first-round selections. As a result of opt-outs and injury, the Michigan defense has been particularly hard hit. On the defensive line, Michigan will be without Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, and Josiah Stewart. The secondary will again not have its best player, cornerback Will Johnson.
The Wolverines have had 21 other players enter the Transfer Portal. A couple of them, including backup quarterback Alex Orgi, having not found new teams, will be available for the bowl game.
Alabama has also lost key players to the Transfer Portal, but unlike Michigan, other than at wide receiver, the Crimson Tide exiting players have able replacements. Justice Haynes was a big loss at running back, but Richard Young is capable of stepping up quickly. Haynes moved to Michigan, along with Alabama defensive lineman, Damon Payne. Devonta Smith has transferred to Notre Dame, but DaShawn Jones was already splitting time with Smith at the Husky position.
After the roster changes for both teams, Alabama will not only have the most talent in starting roles; the Crimson Tide will have far more quality depth than the Wolverines. Jalen Milroe will have fewer receivers to target, but with Michigan's diminished defensive line, Alabama's rushing offense should feast on Michigan.
Michigan's offense offers little threat to Alabama's solid secondary. The Wolverines are No. 130 in the FBS with a paltry 133.6 passing yards per game.
17 Consecutive Alabama Crimson Tide 10-Win Seasons
A win in the ReliaQuest Bowl is also more important for the Crimson Tide than it would be for Michigan. Alabama's vocal leader, Tyler Booker has harped on the significance of the Alabama Crimson Tide winning 10 games for its 17th consecutive season.
The game's bottom line is Michigan can only win if the Alabama Crimson Tide beats itself.