Nick Saban reacts to Alabama’s ReliaQuest Bowl loss to Michigan, points to letdown after missing CFP

Nick Saban coached his final Alabama game against Michigan in the 2024 Rose Bowl. A year later, he’s discussing the Crimson Tide facing the Wolverines in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

UA concluded the 2024 season on a low note, losing 19-13 to U-M. Alabama was a 16.5-point favorite at kickoff, making it the 3rd loss of Kalen DeBoer’s tenure as a 2-score favorite. Defensively, the Crimson Tide played well, giving up only 190 yards of offense. Turnovers, particularly early when the Tampa weather had an impact on the game, put DeBoer’s squad in an early double-digit hole.

Speaking Saturday morning on College GameDay, Saban highlighted the turnovers and pointed to the letdown of not making the College Football Playoff.

“Turnovers just kill you in a game, and obviously Alabama had two or three or them early in the game,” Saban said. “Michigan’s guys played well in the game. I don’t think Alabama did.

“I think one of the big things that’s always been an issue is for all these teams that have a chance to get in the playoffs and don’t, it’s always a huge letdown when you go play — not take anything away from Michigan — a huge letdown when you play in a bowl game.”

The results of Alabama’s first 4 drives went turnover on downs, fumble, interception and a second fumble. Michigan answered those 4 drives by going up 16-0 with 2:04 remaining in the 1st quarter. Alabama’s CFP campaign was a hot topic during Tuesday’s game, particularly on social media, where many fans and media members tore into the Tide’s performance.

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.