Alabama’s Defense Faces a Challenge in Rose Bowl Matchup Against Michigan
The Alabama football team’s defense is gearing up for a formidable challenge in the upcoming Rose Bowl game. The Crimson Tide is set to square off against a Michigan team that boasts a well-rounded offensive strategy, incorporating both the running and passing game more evenly than some of the SEC teams Alabama has faced this season.
The Wolverines have two standout players who received Heisman Trophy votes this season: running back Blake Corum and quarterback JJ McCarthy. While Michigan is primarily recognized for its defense, Alabama is preparing to go head-to-head with the Wolverines’ offense in the College Football Playoff matchup scheduled for January 1st. Here are three key players to watch on the Crimson Tide defense:
1. Dallas Turner:
Dallas Turner is the powerhouse behind Alabama’s defense. Following the SEC championship game against Georgia, Turner was named the SEC’s defensive player of the year. He is a formidable presence on the edge and has become Alabama’s top pass-rusher this season, taking over from Will Anderson, who has moved on to the NFL. Alongside fellow edge rushers Chris Braswell and Justin Eboigbe, Turner has been relentless in terrorizing quarterbacks throughout the 2023 campaign. In preparation for the Rose Bowl, Turner emphasized the need for physicality and thorough analysis of Michigan’s offensive tendencies to disrupt JJ McCarthy’s performance.
2. Caleb Downs:
Despite being a true freshman, Caleb Downs has become a key member of Alabama’s secondary in his debut season in Tuscaloosa. He assumed a starting role in the season opener against Middle Tennessee State and has held onto it ever since. Downs was honored as the SEC’s freshman of the year and is a finalist for the Shaun Alexander Award, recognizing College Football’s top freshman. Leading the Tide in tackles with 99 on the season and securing two interceptions, Downs has already showcased his abilities. He has also taken over punt return duties and returned one for a touchdown against Chattanooga. Alabama’s success against Michigan will depend on Downs continuing to excel.
3. Deontae Lawson:
Deontae Lawson, the defensive signal-caller and inside linebacker, holds a pivotal role against Michigan’s balanced offense. His primary focus will be limiting the impact of Blake Corum, a key weapon in the Wolverines’ attack. Alabama has witnessed strong linebacker play this season, particularly from Jihaad Campbell, who stepped into the starting lineup during Lawson’s and Trezmen Marshall’s recovery from injuries. Lawson, as the leader of the group, ensures the defense is properly aligned. With 61 tackles, including 5.5 for loss, and three sacks this season, Lawson’s contributions have been significant. As one of the team’s leaders, he will need to deliver a standout performance against Michigan.