Michigan’s focus in the Rose Bowl matchup will be on identifying and countering the key offensive players and strengths of Alabama.
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Michigan football team is well aware that a strong defensive performance is crucial for success in a College Football Playoff game. As the top-ranked Wolverines gear up for the Rose Bowl against No. 4 Alabama, they are mindful of the improvements in Alabama’s offense. Although lacking the star power of previous years, the Crimson Tide possess a dual-threat quarterback performing at an elite level, one of the nation’s premier deep-ball receivers, and a roster teeming with size, speed, and athletic talent.
In the first segment of our two-part scouting report preview, we examine Alabama’s key players and strengths in both passing and rushing, along with Michigan’s strategies to slow down the Crimson Tide.
Passing Offense
Alabama’s Personnel:
– Jalen Milroe (QB) — 170 completions on 260 attempts (65.4%), 2,720 yards (10.4 per attempt), 23 touchdowns, six interceptions
– Jermaine Burton (WR) — 52 targets, 35 receptions, 777 yards, eight touchdowns, 126 yards after catch, zero drops, nine contested catches, three missed tackles forced, 29 first downs
– Isaiah Bond (WR) — 70 targets, 45 receptions, 624 yards, four touchdowns, 205 YAC, three drops, one contested catch, six MTF, 29 first downs
– Amari Niblack (TE) — 29 targets, 19 receptions, 321 yards, four touchdowns, 73 YAC, two drops, three contested catches, four MTF, 14 first downs
Rankings:
– Passing yards per game — 60th of 133 teams nationally
– Passing yards per attempt — 4th
– Passer rating — 6th
– Completion percentage — 42nd
– Sacks allowed per game — 118th
– PFF passing grade — 23rd
– PFF receiving grade — 25th
– PFF pass-blocking grade — 46th
Alabama’s Story:
After losing key offensive figures to the NFL, Alabama’s passing game initially sought to reload. Despite a modest start, quarterback Jalen Milroe has shown improvement throughout the season, excelling in deep-ball passes. Jermaine Burton has been a crucial component of their downfield success, ranking third nationally in yards per reception. While the rest of the receiving corps may not match past star-studded groups, the talent is undeniable.
Key for Michigan:
Pressure is the key against Alabama’s passing game, particularly exploiting their vulnerability in pass protection. Alabama ranks low in sacks allowed per game, and Michigan aims to capitalize on this weakness. Generating consistent pressure on Milroe, despite his resilience under pressure, can disrupt the Crimson Tide’s deep-ball passing and scrambling abilities.
Rushing Offense
Alabama’s Personnel:
– Jase McClellan (RB) — 167 carries, 801 yards, six touchdowns, 544 yards after contact, 45 MTF, 24 carries of at least 10 yards, 42 first downs
– Roydell Williams (RB) — 111 carries, 565 yards, five touchdowns, 373 YAC, 20 MTF, 15 carries of at least 10 yards, 26 first downs
– Milroe (QB) — 63 non-sack carries, 693 yards, 12 touchdowns, nine fumbles, 441 YAC, 30 MTF, 30 carries of at least 10 yards, 44 first downs
Rankings:
– Rushing yards per game — 48th
– Rushing yards per carry — 70th
– Tackles for loss allowed per game — 80th
– PFF rushing grade — 12th
– PFF run-blocking grade — 3rd
Alabama’s Story:
Alabama’s running back unit may not boast the same star power as before, but Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams provide a solid ground game. The Crimson Tide have faced challenging run defenses but have struggled in achieving consistent success. Milroe’s dual-threat capabilities significantly contribute to their ground attack.
Key for Michigan:
Containing Milroe is crucial for Michigan’s defensive success against Alabama’s run game. Milroe’s ability to make plays, both through scrambles and designed runs, poses a significant threat. Michigan emphasizes disciplined pass-rushing to avoid creating escape lanes for Milroe. Tackling fundamentals, field awareness, and containment will be paramount to neutralize Alabama’s dual-threat quarterback.
In both passing and rushing, the Rose Bowl presents a test of Michigan’s ability to maintain momentum after a four-week layoff. If the Wolverines can sustain their form, their defense holds the advantage on January 1st.
