Unraveling Alabama's Bowl Battles and Michigan Rivalry

Alabama Football ReliaQuest Bowl History

In the annals of college football, Alabama has made significant appearances in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Back in 1987, the Crimson Tide concluded their season in the Hall of Fame Bowl against Michigan, only to fall short with a 28-24 loss. Fast forward to 1996, and Alabama emerged victorious with a 17-14 win in the Outback Bowl. These historical matchups showcase the Tide's ability to perform in different bowl settings.

January 2, 1988: Michigan 28, Alabama 24 — Hall of Fame Bowl. This was a memorable encounter where Michigan emerged on top. January 1, 1997: Alabama 17, Michigan 14 — Outback Bowl. Here, Alabama managed to secure a narrow victory, highlighting their resilience on the big stage.

Alabama History vs Michigan

Throughout college football history, Alabama and Michigan have faced off six times. The most recent clash was in the CFP national championship last season, with Michigan emerging victorious with a 27-20 win in the Rose Bowl. Looking back at their history:

January 2, 1988: Michigan 28, Alabama 24 — Hall of Fame Bowl. A closely contested game that left a lasting mark. January 1, 1997: Alabama 17, Michigan 14 — Outback Bowl. This win demonstrated Alabama's ability to turn the tide in their favor. January 1, 2000: Michigan 35, Alabama 34 — Orange Bowl. A thrilling battle where Michigan just edged out Alabama. September 1, 2012: Alabama 41, Michigan 14. A dominant performance by Alabama in this matchup. January 1, 2020: Alabama 35, Michigan 16 — Citrus Bowl. Another win for Alabama in a significant bowl game. January 1, 2024: Michigan 27, Alabama 20 — College Football Playoff semifinal at the Rose Bowl. This upcoming game promises to be another epic showdown.

When was Alabama’s last non-CFP bowl game?

Alabama's most recent non-CFP bowl game was a resounding 45-20 Sugar Bowl win against Kansas State on December 31, 2022. This victory came after the Crimson Tide had suffered regular-season losses to Tennessee and LSU, showing their ability to bounce back in bowl games.

Where did Alabama play its 2023 bowl game?

In 2023, Alabama faced a tough challenge as they lost their CFP semifinal matchup at the Rose Bowl 27-20 to Michigan on January 1. This loss was a setback but also a reminder of the competitiveness of college football.

Where did Alabama football play its bowl game in Nick Saban’s first season?

Alabama's first season under head coach Nick Saban ended with a 30-24 win against Colorado in the Independence Bowl. This win marked a turning point as the Crimson Tide had previously lost four consecutive regular-season games by seven points or fewer to LSU, Mississippi State, Louisiana Monroe, and Auburn.

Kalen DeBoer bowl history

As a head coach, Kalen DeBoer has led teams to two bowl wins in three tries. His most recent bowl loss was when Washington lost to Michigan 34-13 in the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 8. Here is his full history coaching in bowl games:

December 29, 2022: Washington 27, Texas 20 — Texas Bowl. A close win for Washington in this bowl game. January 1, 2024: Washington 37, Texas 31 — CFP semifinal at the Sugar Bowl. Another strong performance by Washington. January 8, 2024: Michigan 34, Washington — CFP National Championship. This loss was a bitter pill to swallow for DeBoer and his team.

When is the ReliaQuest Bowl?

The ReliaQuest Bowl between Alabama and Michigan will kick off at 11 a.m. CT from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Fans can catch all the action on ESPN and through Fubo.

Alabama vs Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl will be a highly anticipated event. Stay tuned as these two football giants battle it out on the field.