Tampa, Fla. — One year after capturing the national championship, Michigan concluded its inaugural season under head coach Sherrone Moore with a statement victory, setting the foundation for a promising future.
Moore, who took the reins after former coach Jim Harbaugh departed for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers last winter, described the Wolverines’ 19-13 win over Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl as a collective triumph.
“We’ve built a great culture with amazing kids,” Moore said. “No single person wins a game. It’s always a team effort.”
Dominant Defense and Key Performances
Michigan’s defense was relentless, sacking Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe five times and forcing three turnovers. ReliaQuest Bowl MVP Jordan Marshall led the offense with 100 rushing yards on 23 carries, enabling Michigan to control the clock and dictate the pace of the game.
Kicker Dominic Zvada contributed four field goals, while quarterback Davis Warren connected with Fredrick Moore for a first-half touchdown. Michigan (8-5) closed the season on a high note with three consecutive wins, including back-to-back upsets over Ohio State and Alabama.
“We were 5-5 at one point,” Marshall noted. “That’s not the standard here. We’ll be better next year.”
Alabama’s Struggles Continue
For the second straight year, Alabama’s season ended with a loss to the Wolverines. Last year, Michigan defeated the Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff semifinal en route to a national title.
This season’s defeat snapped Alabama’s streak of 16 consecutive double-digit win seasons. First-year head coach Kalen DeBoer, who succeeded the legendary Nick Saban, reflected on the challenges and lessons of the season.
“Losses like this are tough, but they teach us valuable lessons,” DeBoer said. “The key is learning from them and moving forward to be better next year.”
Game Highlights:
The game began under heavy rain, with Michigan capitalizing on Alabama’s early miscues. Milroe endured a disastrous first quarter, committing two fumbles and throwing an interception on three of Alabama’s first four drives. Michigan converted the mistakes into 16 points, including Warren’s touchdown pass and three Zvada field goals.
Alabama showed toughness and grit, narrowing the deficit before break. Milroe delivered a 25-yard touchdown pass to Robbie Ouzts and orchestrated a quick drive capped by Graham Nicholson’s 24-yard field goal, making it 16-10 at the break.
In the second half, Michigan’s defense held strong. Zvada’s 37-yard field goal extended the lead to 19-10, but Alabama responded with Nicholson’s 51-yarder to stay within striking distance. The Crimson Tide’s final drive ended at Michigan’s 15-yard line, sealing the Wolverines’ victory.
Milroe completed 16 of 32 passes for 192 yards, one touchdown, and one interception but was unable to overcome his early struggles. Warren, Michigan’s starter, threw for 73 yards and a touchdown before leaving with an injury. Alex Orji finished the game at quarterback for the Wolverines.
Looking Ahead:
Michigan’s relentless defense and team-oriented culture set the stage for a brighter future under Moore. Meanwhile, Alabama will aim to regroup and rebuild after a challenging first season under DeBoer.
Key Takeaway:
Michigan’s pressure on Milroe proved decisive, as Alabama’s early turnovers left them playing catch-up for most of the game. The Wolverines showcased a balance of grit and resilience, providing a glimpse of their potential in the seasons to come.
