The Michigan Wolverines ended 2024 the same way they started it: with a win over Alabama.
Michigan upset the Crimson Tide in the ReliaQuest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium on New Year’s Eve and ended the season on a three-game winning streak, which included a loss at rival Ohio State.
Confetti flies as Michigan celebrates after defeating Alabama to win the ReliaQuest Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
The 19-13 victory comes almost a year after Michigan defeated Alabama in overtime in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day to advance to the national championship game where Jim Harabugh and JJ McCarthy would lead the Wolverines to victory before leaving for the NFL.
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According to Detroit Free Press, the win marks the first time a college football program has beaten Alabama twice in the same calendar year.
But 2024 was a tough year for Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, who coached Washington to the CFB final.
Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore (8) recovers from a fumble by Alabama running back Jalen Milroe (4) during the first half of the ReliaQuest Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
After being disappointed to be left out of the expanded 12-team CFP field, Alabama was the favorite heading into Tuesday’s game. But Michigan’s defense, led by the former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, he shut down Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, sacked him five times and forced three turnovers.
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Dominic Zvada made four field goals and Davis Warren threw a touchdown pass to Fredrick Moore in the first half, but Michigan’s defense secured the victory.
Michigan wide receiver Fredrick Moore (3) runs past Alabama defensive back Domani Jackson (1) during the first half of the ReliaQuest Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
Alabama had a chance to win on its final drive, but on fourth-and-10 in the red zone, Milroe was shut down. He completed 16 of 32 passing for 192 yards, one touchdown and an interception.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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