Michigan defense shines as Wolverines upset Alabama in ReliaQuest Bowl

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The Michigan Wolverines ended 2024 in the same way they began it: with a win over Alabama. 

Michigan upset the Crimson Tide in the ReliaQuest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium on New Year's Eve to end their season on a three-game win streak, which included an upset over rival Ohio State. 

Confetti flies as Michigan celebrates after defeating Alabama to win the ReliaQuest Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Tampa, Fla.  (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

The 19-13 win comes nearly a year after Michigan defeated Alabama in overtime in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day to advance to the national championship game where Jim Harabugh and J.J. McCarthy would lead the Wolverines to victory before departing for the NFL. 

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According to Detroit Free Press, the win marks the first time a college football program defeated Alabama twice in the same calendar year.

But 2024 was a tough year for Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, who coached Washington in the CFB final. 

Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore (8) recovers a fumble by Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe (4) during the first half of the ReliaQuest Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Tampa, Fla.  (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Having been disappointed with being left out of the expanded 12-team CFP field, Alabama was the favorite heading into Tuesday’s bowl game. But Michigan’s defense, led by former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, shut down Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, sacking him five times and forcing three turnovers. 

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