Alabama’s 2024 football season will conclude Tuesday as the Crimson Tide faces Michigan once again, this time in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Unlike their Jan. 1 Rose Bowl meeting, which marked the end of Nick Saban’s legendary coaching career, this matchup carries no College Football Playoff implications.
Still, the game holds significance for Alabama, offering a chance to extend its streak of 10-win seasons, a run that began in 2008. First-year head coach Kalen DeBoer aims to lead the team to a strong finish in his postseason debut. The game is set for an 11 a.m. CT kickoff at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., and will be broadcast on ESPN.
As Alabama prepares, here are three key questions heading into the season finale:
1. How Will the Depleted Wide Receiver Group Perform?
Alabama’s wide receiver corps was already thinned by injuries before the transfer portal further depleted the roster. The departures of Kobe Prentice, Kendrick Law, Caleb Odom, and Emmanuel Henderson have left the team with just five scholarship receivers.
Jaylen Mbakwe, who played as a cornerback throughout the regular season, has transitioned to wide receiver and will play in the ReliaQuest Bowl. He joins Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard, Jaren Hamilton, and Rico Scott as Alabama’s remaining options at the position.
Williams and Bernard have been consistent contributors all season, but Mbakwe’s switch to offense has generated excitement.
“He’s got the speed, and we’ve seen what he can do with the ball in his hands,” said DeBoer. “He’s been great in the return game, and we’re confident he’ll make an impact as a receiver.”
2. Will Alabama Be Motivated?
Motivation has been a concern for Alabama teams in previous non-playoff bowl games. This year’s Crimson Tide will face a Michigan squad it is expected to outmatch, but complacency has led to unexpected losses this season.
Players and coaches have downplayed the idea of seeking revenge for the Rose Bowl loss, instead focusing on finishing the season strong.
“It’s about unfinished business,” said quarterback Jalen Milroe. “This is our last game of the season, and we want to go out on top.”
Maintaining the program’s streak of 10-win seasons is another motivating factor. Alabama hasn’t finished with fewer than 10 wins since 2007, and players have emphasized the importance of continuing that tradition.
“That’s one of our goals,” said Milroe. “We’ve got to earn it—it won’t be handed to us.”
3. Which Players Are Playing Their Final College Game?
Several Alabama players, including Jalen Milroe, may be playing their final game for the Crimson Tide. The redshirt junior quarterback has yet to announce his plans for the NFL Draft.
“For me, it’s about focusing on the present,” said Milroe. “I’m taking in this moment, preparing with my teammates, and making the most of right now.”
Other draft-eligible players include Tyler Booker, Germie Bernard, Jihaad Campbell, Deontae Lawson, and Domani Jackson. Their decisions will shape the team’s outlook for 2025.
Final Thoughts
While the ReliaQuest Bowl lacks the high stakes of playoff games, it remains an important test for Alabama as it closes out the 2024 season. With new faces stepping up and a proud tradition on the line, the Crimson Tide will look to end the year on a high note.
