It’s officially 2020, and there’s no better way to start the new year than to watch the Alabama Crimson Tide take on the Michigan Wolverines in the Citrus Bowl!
Alabama (10-2) comes into the Citrus Bowl with a mission to prove the dynasty isn’t dead. For the first time since the CFB Playoff came into existence, Alabama is not part of it. This team is disappointed with how their season ended, and it will show. Alabama lost their only to games to LSU and Auburn by a combined 8 points. Don’t be surprised to see Alabama make a big statement in this matchup. If Mac Jones can be consistent while moving the ball downfield, Alabama has a chance to put points on the board fast. Mac Jones has done a great job making big plays downfield, but he has to prevent causing any turnovers that Michigan could capitalize on. Defensively, Alabama has to shut down Michigan’s running game, and the secondary cannot afford to have any busted coverage today. All, in all, when Alabama is humbled and hungry, they tend to play their best games. If Alabama can come into this game focused and motivated, Alabama can get a big win to start of 2020.
Michigan (9-3) comes into the Citrus Bowl with a chip on their shoulder. After losing 3 games this season to top 10 teams, Michigan wants to prove they are capable of beating a top caliber team. Not only has Michigan struggled to stop big plays defensively, they have also been a fairly inconsistent team offensively as well. If Shea Patterson can be a consistent quarterback today while he makes big plays downfield, Michigan has a chance to put up some big numbers against Alabama. Defensively, if Michigan can stop Alabama’s running game and make Mac Jones have to make plays downfield, the Wolverines certainly have a chance to get a big win over a top 15 team.
All in all, the Citrus Bowl this year will be one to remember. There’s no doubt that both Alabama and Michigan have a reason to prove themselves, and both are playing with a chip on their shoulder.
Kickoff: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 1 p.m. ET
Where: Camping World Stadium (Orlando, Fla.)
TV: ABC
Spread: Alabama -7
Hannah’s Score Prediction: Alabama 38 – Michigan 24