In a bowl game many consider inconsequential, Michigan coaches knew there are always consequences. Winning or losing on any stage to a team that you often have to recruit against is a big deal. With Michigan pulling out a 19-13 victory over an Alabama team many thought should have made the CFP,

Alabama and Michigan will end 2024 the way they began it, by meeting in a bowl game. What's at stake in Tampa on New Year's Eve?

Michigan’s offense didn’t have any drives of more than 50 yards and finished with a ReliaQuest Bowl-low 190 yards. Playing without its top two running backs, the Wolverines received a boost from true freshman Jordan Marshall, who made his first start and rushed for 100 yards on 23 carries.