The Michigan Wolverines, who have been absent from the College Football Playoff for the first time in four years, are set to make their postseason mark. On Sunday afternoon, it was announced that they will face the Alabama Crimson Tide in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 31. This bowl game holds a special significance as it is a rematch of last year's CFP semifinal matchup in the Rose Bowl, a game the Wolverines won in overtime to reach the National Championship and emerge victorious against Washington.

Key Details and Venue

The kickoff for this highly anticipated game is set for noon EST and will take place at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. This stadium is the home of the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, adding to the excitement and atmosphere.

Last Year's Rematch

Last year, the Wolverines emerged victorious in the Rose Bowl semifinal with a score of 27 - 20 in overtime. This victory propelled them to the National Championship, where they defeated Washington. Now, they face a new challenge as Alabama's head coach from last year, Kalen DeBoer, now leads the Tide. This brings a plethora of storylines and anticipation to the game.

The Wolverines (7 - 5) have been on a roll, coming off a 13 - 10 victory over Ohio State last weekend. This marks their fourth consecutive win in the rivalry, showcasing their strength and determination. Alabama, on the other hand, won its rivalry game as well, a 28 - 14 victory over Auburn two weeks ago. However, they failed to make the SEC title game despite finishing the regular season with a 9 - 3 record.

As we approach the bowl game, Maize n Brew will be providing extensive coverage, delving deep into the teams, players, and the various storylines that will unfold. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and insights as the Michigan Wolverines and the Alabama Crimson Tide prepare to battle it out on the field.

Pre-Game Anticipation

The build-up to this game is filled with excitement and speculation. Fans on both sides are eagerly awaiting the clash of these two football powerhouses. The Wolverines' recent form and their victory over Ohio State have given them confidence, while the Tide's experience and talent make them a formidable opponent. There will be countless storylines to follow, from individual player matchups to coaching strategies.

The ReliaQuest Bowl presents a unique opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and make a statement. It is a chance for the Wolverines to bounce back from their absence from the Playoff and for the Tide to prove their worth. As the days count down, the anticipation continues to grow, and football fans around the country are eagerly awaiting the showdown.