Michigan vs. Alabama: Expected Highlights in the Rose Bowl of the College Football Playoff, Pre-game Contemplations

Michigan vs. Alabama: Clash in the College Football Playoff Rose Bowl

Tonight, I’ll be sharing my annual Stream of Consciousness Game Notes during the unfolding Rose Bowl. Feel free to check in for entertainment and then move on. This game has left me unusually conflicted. Usually, I make a best-guess pick for tight matchups, but this Rose Bowl clash between Michigan and Alabama has me torn.

On one hand, I believe Michigan is the superior team. It’s a well-rounded, complete unit with all the necessary components in place. There’s no reason to doubt that they have the hunger and capability to secure the win, but then again, it’s Alabama. We’ve witnessed their prowess too many times, and picking against them often ends with an “oh yeah, it’s Alabama… duh” moment.

I can’t shake off the unease caused by the losses of Ohio State and Penn State. Despite Ohio State being down to a third-string quarterback, it’s still Ohio State, and Penn State should have overcome Ole Miss. These setbacks, coupled with Georgia’s struggles, leave me uneasy, even though Alabama faced a better and more complete Georgia team.

Yet, I stick to my belief that Michigan is the better team. I won’t back down from that assertion, but I won’t dispute those who think the Crimson Tide will emerge victorious either. Why Michigan? It boils down to being a complete team, loaded with veterans, and possessing the potential for standout performances, especially from JJ McCarthy. I anticipate exploiting vulnerabilities in the Alabama corners and worry that Michigan’s creative defensive strategies could challenge the Tide’s pass protection.

This Rose Bowl is the national championship, and I acknowledge that I’ll gladly accept being wrong if the Washington-Texas winner takes it all in Houston on January 8th. However, this matchup feels significant, unlike a TCU situation, and despite Texas beating Bama before, this game is the one that matters.

Weather-wise, conditions should be ideal with the rain and cold of the week gone, not favoring either side but not posing a deciding factor.

Reflecting on the past six Rose Bowls, each has been a thrilling spectacle. Demanding the same level of drama, I predict Michigan’s defense will shine in the late stages of a close, unexpectedly low-scoring thriller.