2023 Big Ten Championship – Iowa vs. Michigan.
The game between Michigan and Alabama is fast approaching, and by now both teams should have a good idea of how they will compete against each other.
In every match there will be players who will have a bigger impact on the game than usual.
Maybe it’s just a mismatch between the teams.A case in point is TCU’s Max Duggan, whose mobility consistently created offense for Michigan’s defense in last year’s Fiesta Bowl.
This year, Michigan once again has plenty of playoff players who can help exploit Alabama’s weaknesses.
But on the other hand, Michigan can be touchy and there can be areas where players need to step up.
Today we’ll take a look at some players and position groups that could be Michigan’s X-factor in the Rose Bowl.
Colston LovelandIn the second half of the season, we saw Colston Loveland become more aggressive.
His athleticism and ability were on full display, and J.J. McCarthy helped him with 40 receptions for 572 yards and four touchdowns.
The Wolverines will face mismatches on the outside against the Tide, as Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold are two of the best corners in the country.
This means Michigan can use Loveland as a tool to move the ball down the field.
Texas running back Ja’Tavion Sanders had a big game against Alabama, hauling in five receptions for 114 yards, which is certainly encouraging. edge Runner.
The offensive line was considered Alabama’s strength early in the season, but it was not strong in pass defense.
Despite a mobile quarterback in Jalen Milroe, Alabama has allowed 43 sacks this season, eighth in the FBS.
Michigan should have a significant advantage here as the Wolverines have plenty of edge rushers, led by Jaylen Harrell and his 6.5 sacks.
Brayden McGregor, Josiah Stewart and Derrick Moore also made valuable contributions.
Of the four, Michigan’s edge group features versatility and the ability to win with both speed and power.
Having a quarterback is key to winning any game and it will be important for Michigan against the Tide, offensive line.
The Wolverines have many areas of advantage, but the offensive line, especially the right side, could be problematic.
After Zach Zinter suffered an injury against Ohio State, Carsen Barnhart moved to right guard and Trente Jones took over at right tackle.
The tandem played well in that game, but Iowa lost J.J. They struggled against the line in the later Big Ten Championship game.
McCarthy has four sacks and 1.9 yards per rush for Michigan.With Alabama’s defensive front in shambles, the makeshift offensive line will face another big test in the College Football Playoff.
The unit is led by Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell, who have combined for 17 sacks this year.
Michigan will have to challenge this talented Alabama defensive line to move the ball and put points on the board. JJ McCarthyFans love J.J. McCarthy’s performance in last year’s Fiesta Bowl helped Michigan stay in the game and eventually score 45 points.
When TCU threatened to pull away, it was McCarthy who used his arms and legs to keep things close.
McCarthy has taken over as the centerpiece of Michigan’s offense this season, and his play has earned him the status of one of the best quarterbacks in the country.
His performances against Maryland and Iowa left something to be desired, but he can still dominate games with his playmaking abilities.
Great quarterback play is a must in the College Football Playoff.
So for Michigan to win, McCarthy needs to show what he’s made of.
