The Rose Bowl featuring Michigan vs. Alabama became a top-10 all-time cable telecast, drawing 27.2 million viewers, the highest for a non-NFL sporting event since 2018 and the third-highest for a College Football Playoff semifinal. The game, which Michigan won in overtime, peaked at 32.8 million viewers. The subsequent Sugar Bowl also had impressive viewership, with 18.4 million tuning in. Michigan's victory sets them up for a chance at their first national championship since 1997.
The College Football Playoff semifinal features No. 1 Michigan against No. 4 Alabama in the Rose Bowl Game. Michigan, despite a sign-stealing scandal, is aiming for its first playoff win after two previous semifinal losses. Alabama, after a controversial selection, is making a record eighth playoff appearance. The game is crucial as it determines who will advance to the national championship game in Houston. Live updates and scores are being provided by USA TODAY Sports, with Alabama taking an early lead after a Michigan mistake. The game is being broadcast on ESPN with various viewing options available.
MLive's sports writers offer their score predictions for the upcoming Rose Bowl semifinal between No. 1 Michigan and No. 4 Alabama. Despite Michigan's impressive season, history favors Alabama, who has a 6-1 record in national semifinals under Nick Saban. The predictions are split, with some favoring Alabama due to their experience and talent, while others believe Michigan's strong performance this season could lead to a victory. Predicted scores range from a close win for Alabama to a narrow victory for Michigan, highlighting the expected competitiveness of the game.
The analysis of the Michigan vs. Alabama point spread suggests that while Michigan has had a strong season, their performance against top teams and reliance on the running game may not fare well against Alabama's strengths. Alabama's ability to cover spreads, especially as an underdog, and their overall talent and coaching advantage with Nick Saban at the helm, make them a strong pick against Michigan despite being the underdog. The article leans towards Alabama outperforming expectations and suggests taking Alabama with the points in what is anticipated to be an "upset" that isn't truly an upset.
