Keys to victory for Alabama in Rose Bowl matchup against Michigan

We are just one day away from kickoff in Pasadena between No. 4 Alabama and No. 1 Michigan in the Rose Bowl as the two legendary programs battle for a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Since the conclusion of Week 3, Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide have been on a mission to prove all of their naysayers wrong, and taking down the No. 1 ranked team in back-to-back contests will go a long way in doing so.

Monday’s matchup with the Wolverines will present plenty of obstacles for the Crimson Tide and Alabama will need to play well to come away with the upset win.

Here are some of the keys to victory for Alabama in the semifinal matchup against Michigan.

Don’t allow J.J. McCarthy to get in a rhythm early

The Columbus Dispatch

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy has put together an efficient season for the Wolverines. While he hasn’t been as polished over the past several weeks of the season, McCarthy is more than capable of taking over a game if allowed to find an early rhythm.

Establish a physical presence early on offense

Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

After some early season struggles, Alabama’s offensive line has morphed into one of the country’s most physical units. Controlling the line of scrimmage is always critical and it becomes even more important when teams are so evenly matched.

Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Michigan tight end Colston Loveland is one of the more impressive tight ends that I have seen on film this season. Loveland has a nice mix of size and athleticism and is more than capable of causing problems for Alabama’s defense. How the Tide defends Loveland will go a long way in determining Alabama’s defensive success.

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

It is safe to say that Michigan has not seen a quarterback with the athletic ability of Jalen Milroe all season long. With the…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/keys-victory-alabama-rose-bowl-131553642.html

Author : Roll Tide Wire

Publish date : 2023-12-31 13:15:53

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.