Skip to main content

Alabama vs. Michigan: Predictions, odds and how to watch ReliaQuest Bowl


play
Show Caption

The New Year's Eve Reliaquest Bowl will feature the Alabama Crimson Tide facing off against the Michigan Wolverines at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

In Kalen DeBoer's first year as Alabama's head coach, the Crimson Tide encountered several challenges and finished the season with a record of 9-3. Although they did not qualify for the College Football Playoff, Alabama achieved some memorable victories, including a notable 41-34 win over Georgia. Jalen Milroe's leadership on offense has been a beacon of optimism, as he recorded a completion rate of 65.9% with 2,652 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, while also rushing for 719 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Michigan, under the guidance of new head coach Sherrone Moore, faced its own set of challenges this season. However, their unexpected 13-10 victory against their rivals, Ohio State, was a moment of triumph that surprised many. Quarterback Davis Warren's performance, with a 63.4% completion rate for 1,126 yards and six touchdowns, adds an element of surprise as they prepare to face the Crimson Tide.

Here is everything to know ahead of the ReliaQuest Bowl.

Watch Alabama vs. Michigan with Fubo FREE trial

ReliaQuest Bowl predictions: Alabama vs. Michigan

Paste BN: Alabama is unanimous pick

  • Scooby Axson: Alabama
  • Jordan Mendoza: Alabama
  • Paul Myerberg: Alabama
  • Erick Smith: Alabama
  • Eddie Timanus: Alabama
  • Dan Wolken: Alabama

ESPN: Alabama 30, Michigan 17

Staff writes: "Coach Kalen DeBoer's first season at Alabama won't end in the CFP. How many of the Crimson Tide's top players will join him in Tampa? Alabama's opt-outs and portal entries will be a storyline through December, and Michigan also could have some, as the Wolverines have more high-level NFL draft prospects on this year's team than last year's national championship squad. The Tide still will have a significant edge on offense in the matchup, and Michigan might need an Ohio State-like performance to keep pace. Michigan's run game keeps things close for a half, but Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard eventually get loose as Alabama pulls away."

Sports Illustrated: Alabama

James Park writes: "Alabama -11.5 ... Michigan has some bodies up front defensively who can contest the Tide’s blockers on the line, but Alabama has too many skill threats who can get behind the Wolverines’ secondary."

BetMGM: Alabama

Staff writes: "The winning team model predicts Alabama will win this game with 79.4% confidence, based on game simulations, offensive & defensive matchups and recent game results. This winning team prediction factors in up-to-date player injuries for both Alabama and Michigan, key player performances this season and recent team trends."

ReliaQuest Bowl odds, lines: Alabama vs. Michigan

The Alabama Crimson Tide are favorites to defeat the Michigan Wolverines, according to the BetMGM college football odds.

Odds as of Monday, Dec. 30.

  • Spread: Alabama (-14)
  • Moneylines: Alabama (-650); Michigan (+450)
  • Over/under: 43.5

How to watch Alabama vs. Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl

  • Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31
  • Time: Noon ET
  • TV: ESPN
  • Stream: Fubo
  • Where: Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, FL)

Tickets to the ReliaQuest Bowl with StubHub

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. Paste BN Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.