3 obstacles Michigan football faces versus Alabama

Looking ahead to the Rose Bowl, here are three obstacles for Michigan football going up against Alabama.

On January 1st of next year, the Michigan Wolverines will face off against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The last time these teams met in the postseason, this contest was a brutal game for Michigan football.

We all know the final score of 35-16 was a tough pill to swallow in 2020, especially with the game being on a national stage. This Alabama team has had some close victories this season; the Wolverines will have roadblocks to hurdle in this matchup. I will highlight some obstacles that Michigan football has to address to gain victory.

Michigan Offensive line vs Alabama Defensive line

Losing Zak Zinter from the offensive line of Michigan was a substantial blow to the team. This Michigan offensive line has talent and depth, but they’re not facing an average front four.

Alabama has accumulated 38 sacks on the season; that equals the second most sacks in the SEC. The Crimson Tide doesn’t have to blitz to get pressure on the QB. Alabama can use the bull rush or stunt gaps with the front four.

Constant pressure from the defensive frontline could lead to a quarterback folding under duress, causing underthrows or turnovers. Pressure also leads to running backs getting hit in the backfield for negative yardage.

The Wolverines’ offensive line has to hold steady to maintain a positive game script, creating running and passing opportunities. J.J. McCarthy is a very mobile QB and his athleticism could help him escape pockets that collapse.

McCarthy has the speed to gain 10 yards or more on rushing plays. Big defensive linemen can’t hit what they can’t catch. If McCarthy can continually pick up rushing yards when the play breaks down, his attributes could tire out the front four of Alabama.