Exclusive 2024 Rose Bowl Moments – Alabama vs Michigan CFP Semifinal Highlights

Michigan Triumphs in Semifinal Showdown A Step Closer to National Glory

In an exhilarating College Football Playoff semifinal, No. 1 Michigan clinched a dramatic 27-20 victory over No. 4 Alabama in the Rose Bowl, securing their spot after a grueling overtime battle. This win, amidst a season marred by controversies including a sign-stealing investigation and the suspension of head coach Jim Harbaugh, propelled the Wolverines to an impeccable 14-0 record as they chase their first national championship in over two decades.

On the other side, Alabama, making a return to the CFP after missing out last season, ended their campaign at 12-2. Despite entering the game on the back of an 11-game winning streak, they narrowly missed out on providing head coach Nick Saban with his eighth national title. The intense face-off left fans on the edge of their seats, epitomizing the unpredictable and thrilling nature of college football.

BLAKE CORUM COULD NOT BE STOPPED‼️

Michigan takes the lead in OT 👀 #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/FfeVQlHAAQ

— ESPN (@espn) January 2, 2024

Thrilling Overtime Finish Wolverines Triumph Over Crimson Tide

In a gripping overtime scenario, Michigan’s star running back, Blake Corum, swiftly propelled the Wolverines into the lead with just two plays. He initiated with a robust eight-yard dash, followed by a dazzling 17-yard sprint, weaving through the Alabama defense to secure a touchdown. The successful PAT elevated Michigan’s lead to 27-20.

On the other side, Alabama found themselves in a do-or-die situation, needing a touchdown to even the score. Their hopes were dashed as they encountered a critical 4th-and-goal from the three-yard line. Despite a valiant effort, Jalen Milroe’s attempt to bulldoze through the middle was thwarted, leaving them two yards shy of the goal and sealing Michigan’s victory.

Thrilling Climax in the Final Quarter A Dance of Dominance & Desperation

In the final quarter, Jase McClellan dashed into the end zone for a three-yard touchdown, nudging Alabama ahead with a score of 17-13 after a successful PAT. The lead was a team effort, with Jalen Milroe tearing up the field with 37 yards over three rushes. However, the Tide’s momentum faltered when Milroe lost the ball at midfield due to a forceful hit from Quinten Johnson, leading to a turnover recovered by Michigan’s Josh Wallace.

JALEN MILROE IS STOPPED ON 4TH DOWN😱

THE WOLVERINES ARE HEADED TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 🏆 #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/X2x3tPzwqr

— ESPN (@espn) January 2, 2024

Despite the recovery, Michigan couldn’t capitalize, missing a key 49-yard field goal. Alabama, seizing the opportunity, pushed forward and secured a 52-yard field goal thanks to Will Reichard’s precise kick, further extending their lead. Michigan, under pressure, faced a critical 4th-and-2 at their 33-yard line. J.J. McCarthy’s arm found Blake Corum for a significant 27-yard catch, only for a penalty to pull them back. Not deterred, McCarthy later connected with Roman Wilson, bringing them tantalizingly close to the end zone at the Alabama five.

The game’s intensity peaked as it edged towards overtime. Alabama attempted a late drive for the win but had to punt. James Burnip’s 51-yard punt put Michigan in a precarious position when James Thaw fumbled the catch. In a heart-stopping moment, he managed to recover the ball at their 1-yard line, narrowly avoiding a swarm of Alabama players, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

Alabama’s Tenacity Prevails Amidst Michigan’s Fierce Defense

Jalen Milroe skillfully navigated through an aggressive Michigan pass rush, defying an imminent sack to sustain an Alabama touchdown drive with a crucial 10-yard run for a first down.

A daring trick play for Michigan teetered on the brink of disaster, yet J.J. McCarthy turned adversity into artistry with a remarkable one-handed catch on a backward pass. McCarthy followed up with a poised throw under pressure, securing a first down and turning a potential setback into a highlight moment.

Despite Michigan’s top-ranked defense starting the game with a fiery display, notching two sacks on Alabama’s quarterback, Jalen Milroe, a muffed punt presented the Crimson Tide with a prime opportunity on a short field. Capitalizing on this, senior running back Jase McClellan swiftly tilted the balance in Alabama’s favor with a spectacular 34-yard touchdown run.

Responding promptly, the Wolverines, led by quarterback J.J. McCarthy, orchestrated a resilient comeback. McCarthy spearheaded a 10-play, 75-yard drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Blake Corum and leveling the score on the ensuing possession.