Who will start in the ReliaQuest Bowl for Alabama? The anticipated depth chart for Alabama football vs Michigan

The Alabama Crimson Tide are getting ready for the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl, one of their most important games of the year against the Michigan Wolverines. With the pivotal postseason game providing an opportunity for Alabama to end the season on a high note, both fans and experts are intently monitoring the team’s depth chart as Alabama prepares for this eagerly awaited match to determine which players will start. There are some important considerations regarding the starting lineup for this game, even though the Alabama football team has a wealth of strong players at many positions. These choices could have a long-term impact on the club’s future course.

Quarterback: Jalen Milroe Set to Lead the Offense

The most critical position in any football team is quarterback, and for Alabama, Jalen Milroe is set to be the starter in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Milroe has seen substantial playing time throughout the season and has shown tremendous growth in his development as the season has progressed. The dual-threat quarterback has had his ups and downs, but he has also demonstrated flashes of brilliance, particularly with his ability to create plays with his legs. Milroe’s strong arm and dynamic playmaking ability have made him a key component of the Alabama offense, and he will be expected to lead the charge against Michigan’s stout defense.

While Milroe’s consistency has been a point of discussion throughout the season, his athleticism and leadership qualities make him the right choice to start in the bowl game. His ability to extend plays and make explosive runs will be crucial against Michigan’s defense, which has proven to be tough but vulnerable to mobile quarterbacks. Milroe’s experience and growth throughout the year will provide Alabama with a strong foundation as they aim to finish the season with a win.

Running Back: A Committee Approach with Jase McClellan Leading the Way

In the backfield, Alabama will likely employ a running back by committee approach in the ReliaQuest Bowl, but Jase McClellan is expected to be the starting running back. McClellan has been one of the most consistent and reliable players for Alabama this season, showing great vision and acceleration while consistently gaining tough yards. His ability to be a three-down back, capable of handling the ball in both the running and passing game, gives Alabama a versatile weapon in the backfield.

However, McClellan won’t be alone in the backfield. Freshman phenom Justice Haynes, along with other running backs like Roydell Williams, will also see significant playing time. Haynes has shown incredible promise, and his ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces has earned him increased opportunities throughout the year. The running back group will play a key role in keeping Michigan’s defense on its heels, and the committee approach will allow Alabama to keep their backs fresh throughout the game.

Wide Receiver: Jermaine Burton and the Receiving Corps

The wide receiver group for Alabama is another position that has seen a lot of talent rotate in and out, but Jermaine Burton is expected to be one of the key starters for the team in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Burton has been a key deep threat for Alabama all season, and his ability to stretch the field will be crucial in helping open up the offense. Alongside Burton, the Crimson Tide will also likely start Isaiah Bond, who has proven to be a reliable target, especially in critical situations.

In addition to Burton and Bond, Alabama’s receiving corps is filled with a mix of players who have all contributed in various ways this season. Players like Kobe Prentice, who has been a steady contributor in the slot, and Ja’Corey Brooks, who has emerged as a big-play option, will also factor into the receiving game. The wide receiver position will be important for Alabama in this game, as Michigan’s defense is tough in the trenches but can be vulnerable to quick, fast-paced passing offenses.

Offensive Line: A Strong, Physical Unit

The Alabama offensive line is expected to be one of the team’s strongest units heading into the ReliaQuest Bowl. With a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers, the offensive line has been solid throughout the season. The starting five are expected to include several key players such as Tyler Booker, who has been a standout performer, and Seth McLaughlin, who has anchored the center position.

One of the main areas of focus for Alabama’s offensive line in this game will be to control the line of scrimmage against a tough Michigan front seven. The offensive line’s ability to protect Jalen Milroe and create running lanes for Jase McClellan and the other running backs will be critical for the success of the offense. If Alabama’s offensive line can establish dominance up front, it will allow the team to open up both the run and passing game effectively.

Defensive Line: A Strong Front Four

On the defensive side of the ball, the defensive line will be one of Alabama’s most important units in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Alabama has a deep and talented defensive line, with players like Jaheim Oatis, Tim Keenan, and Justin Eboigbe expected to be major contributors. These players have consistently been forces on the interior, helping to control the line of scrimmage and disrupt opposing quarterbacks.

Alabama’s defensive front will need to bring its A-game against Michigan’s offensive line, which is known for being tough and physical. The Crimson Tide’s ability to generate pressure on Michigan’s quarterback, whether it be through a four-man rush or through creative blitzes, will be key to slowing down the Wolverines’ offense. The front four will also be tasked with stopping Michigan’s strong rushing attack, which will require discipline and physicality at the point of attack.

Linebackers: A Dynamic Group Led by Dallas Turner

At linebacker, Alabama is expected to start one of the most dynamic players in the SEC, Dallas Turner. Turner has been one of the best pass rushers for the Crimson Tide all season and will play a crucial role in disrupting Michigan’s offensive game plan. Alongside Turner, Alabama will likely start Deontae Lawson and Jaheim Otis in various linebacker positions. The linebackers will be tasked with not only defending the run but also being able to cover pass-catching tight ends and running backs out of the backfield.

Turner’s ability to create pressure from the edge, combined with the physical play of Lawson and Otis, will allow Alabama to be versatile in their defensive schemes. Alabama’s linebackers will be key in slowing down Michigan’s offense and ensuring that they can neutralize the Wolverines’ run game while also staying disciplined in pass coverage.