Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/31/2024 12:00 PM EST

We have your Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Alabama Crimson Tide hit the road to face the Michigan Wolverines.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Alabama Crimson Tide -355 (DraftKings) / Michigan Wolverines +295 (BetRivers)
Best Spread Odds: 10.0 - Alabama Crimson Tide -110 (ESPN BET) / Michigan Wolverines -110 (ESPN BET)
Best Total Odds: 43.5 - Under -110 (FanDuel) / 42.5 - Over -115 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 12/31/2024
Time: 12:00 PM EST
Location: Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, FL)
TV: ESPN

Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines Preview

The Alabama Crimson Tide and Michigan Wolverines are set to clash in the ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year's Eve, a matchup that brings together two storied programs looking to end their seasons on a high note. Both teams have experienced a year of transition, with Alabama under the new leadership of Kalen DeBoer and Michigan guided by first-year head coach Sherrone Moore. The Crimson Tide, who narrowly missed out on the College Football Playoff, finished the regular season with a 9-3 record. Despite their exclusion from the playoff, Alabama has shown resilience, securing victories against top-ranked teams like Georgia and South Carolina. However, inconsistency has plagued them, with unexpected losses to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma.

Michigan, on the other hand, concluded their season with a 7-5 record, a step back from their national championship run the previous year. The Wolverines have struggled offensively, particularly in the passing game, where they failed to surpass 150 yards in eight of their twelve games. This could pose a significant challenge against Alabama's formidable defense, which ranks 10th nationally in scoring defense and has forced 27 turnovers this season.

Both teams are dealing with potential player opt-outs, as top NFL prospects may choose to sit out the bowl game. Michigan's All-American defensive tackle Mason Graham has already declared for the draft and will not participate, which could impact their defensive line's effectiveness against Alabama's offense. The Crimson Tide, meanwhile, will look to leverage their depth, particularly on the defensive line and at linebacker, where bowl practices have been a proving ground for emerging talent.

As the two teams prepare to meet at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, the game promises to be a showcase of talent and strategy. Alabama aims to demonstrate their playoff worthiness and end the season with a statement win, while Michigan seeks to build momentum for the future under Moore's leadership. With both programs eager to prove themselves, the ReliaQuest Bowl is set to be a compelling contest.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines Pick: Alabama Crimson Tide Against the Spread

In the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl, the Alabama Crimson Tide are favored to cover the spread against the Michigan Wolverines, and there are several compelling reasons to support this pick. Alabama, under the guidance of first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer, has demonstrated resilience throughout the season, finishing with a 9-3 record. Despite missing out on the College Football Playoff, the Crimson Tide have secured impressive victories against top-ranked teams such as Georgia and South Carolina, showcasing their ability to perform against formidable opponents.

Alabama's defense has been a cornerstone of their success, ranking 10th nationally in scoring defense and forcing 27 turnovers over the course of the season. This defensive prowess will be crucial against a Michigan offense that has struggled significantly in the passing game, failing to surpass 150 yards in eight of their twelve games. The Wolverines' offensive limitations, particularly in the air, could be further exacerbated by the absence of key players like All-American defensive tackle Mason Graham, who has declared for the NFL draft and will not participate in the bowl game.

Moreover, Alabama's depth and talent across the roster provide them with a strategic advantage. The Crimson Tide have been using bowl practices to evaluate and develop emerging talent, particularly on the defensive line and at linebacker, ensuring they are well-prepared for the matchup. This depth will be vital in countering any potential opt-outs from top NFL prospects, allowing Alabama to maintain their competitive edge.

Given these factors, Alabama's ability to leverage their defensive strength and depth, coupled with Michigan's offensive struggles, positions the Crimson Tide as the stronger team in this matchup. As they aim to end their season with a statement win, Alabama is well-equipped to cover the spread against Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines Top Player Prop Picks

Jalen Milroe Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns -110 (FanDuel)

Jalen Milroe has been a pivotal figure for Alabama this season, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities with 2,252 passing yards and 15 touchdowns. Despite Alabama's exclusion from the College Football Playoff, Milroe's performance has been a bright spot, and he will be eager to cap off the season with a strong showing in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Michigan's defense, while traditionally robust, will be without their All-American defensive tackle Mason Graham, who has opted out to prepare for the NFL draft. This absence could create opportunities for Milroe to exploit Michigan's defensive line, particularly in the red zone. Given Alabama's offensive prowess and Michigan's defensive vulnerabilities, Milroe is well-positioned to exceed 1.5 passing touchdowns in this matchup.

Blake Corum Under 75.5 Rushing Yards -115 (DraftKings)

Blake Corum has been a key component of Michigan's offense, but the Wolverines have struggled to establish a consistent passing game, often relying heavily on their ground attack. However, Alabama's defense ranks 10th nationally in scoring defense and has been particularly effective at stifling the run, allowing them to focus on containing Corum. With Michigan's offensive line facing a formidable Alabama front seven, and the potential for the Wolverines to fall behind early, Corum may find it challenging to reach 75.5 rushing yards. Alabama's defensive depth and strategic preparation during bowl practices further bolster their ability to limit Corum's impact on the ground.

Ryan Williams Over 75.5 Receiving Yards -110 (BetRivers)

Ryan Williams has emerged as a reliable target in Alabama's receiving corps, and his role is expected to be crucial in the ReliaQuest Bowl. With Michigan's secondary potentially stretched thin due to the absence of key defensive players, Williams has the opportunity to exploit mismatches and accumulate significant yardage. Alabama's offensive strategy, likely to focus on exploiting Michigan's defensive weaknesses, will provide Williams with ample opportunities to shine. Given his ability to make big plays and Alabama's need to assert their dominance through the air, Williams is poised to surpass 75.5 receiving yards in this contest.