Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) vs. Michigan Wolverines (13-0)
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Michigan Wolverines 1/1/24 – In one of the most anticipated matchups of the college football season, the Alabama Crimson Tide, with an impressive 12-1 record, square off against the undefeated Michigan Wolverines in the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl. This showdown on January 1, 2024, is not just a battle for a spot in the national championship but a clash of college football titans. Fans and bettors are on the lookout for the best college football bowl tips today for this high-stakes encounter.
Alabama’s journey to the semifinal has been made possible thanks to Roydell Williams and Jermaine Burton. Williams has provided balance for Alabama’s offense with 561 rushing yards and five touchdowns while Burton has been an aggressive receiver who amassed 777 receiving yards and eight touchdowns this season, showing his ability to stretch defenses vertically.
Michigan Wolverines have their own impressive players to back them up: running back Blake Corum and wide receiver Roman Wilson are two such standouts for them. Corum, an electric force on Michigan’s ground game, has amassed 1028 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns as an example of both his consistency and playmaking ability. Wilson, with 662 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns under his belt, provides JJ McCarthy a reliable target in their aerial attack.
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Michigan Wolverines 1/1/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024 at 5:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Rose Bowl |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jalen Milroe QB vs. J.J. McCarthy QB
Jalen Milroe took over the starting job midseason and has effectively managed the Alabama offense. He lacks experience but has shown the ability to push the ball downfield, already with over 2700 passing yards. His mobility allows him to evade the pass rush and extend plays. However, he has also been prone to mistakes, with 6 interceptions. If Milroe can limit turnovers, his big arm gives Alabama explosive potential.
J.J. McCarthy has been a revelation in his first year starting for Michigan. He has displayed advanced accuracy, decision making, and poise this season. Additionally, McCarthy has underrated mobility, using his legs to buy time or pick up first downs when needed. He pilots one of the most efficient offenses in the country and seems to always make the right play. McCarthy’s levelheadedness and precision make him an extremely difficult quarterback to rattle.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Michigan Wolverines -127, Total Odds: 44.5
The betting odds are tightly contested, with Michigan slightly favored. The narrow point spread of -2 for the Wolverines and a total of 44.5 points suggest a close, potentially high-scoring game.
Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Trends
Alabama has a sterling 5-1 ATS record in their last 6 overall. They have also gone OVER 5 times in those 6 games. Additionally, the Crimson Tide are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 matchups against Big Ten opponents. This pedigree of strong performances against the spread indicates ‘Bama is comfortable in big games.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
Michigan is 7-2 ATS in their last 9 contests. They have also gone OVER 7 times in those games. However, the Wolverines have struggled against SEC foes, with a 1-4 ATS record in their previous 5 meetings. While Michigan has played excellently lately, Alabama presents a rare matchup against an elite SEC defense.
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Michigan Wolverines 1/1/24 Betting Picks
This semifinal matchup is a toss-up, with both teams showcasing strengths that could tip the scales. Alabama’s explosive offense will test Michigan’s disciplined defense, while the Wolverines’ balanced attack will challenge the Crimson Tide’s resilience.
Michigan seems to have a slight edge as favorites, but Alabama’s ability to perform in big games makes them a dangerous underdog. Prop bets on key players like Milroe and McCarthy could add excitement, and given the teams’ OVER trends, betting on the OVER might be a wise choice. With premium tips and predictions leaning slightly towards Michigan, this Rose Bowl semifinal is set to be a memorable and tightly contested battle, ideal for the college football enthusiast and bettor alike.
Free Pick and Prediction: Michigan Wolverines 27, Alabama Crimson Tide 24