First Year Of DeBoer Era Ends With Loss To Michigan In ReliaQuest Bowl

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The No. 11 Alabama Crimson Tide (9-4) fell victim to the elements and early turnovers as the first year of the Kalen DeBoer Era ended with a 19-13 loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

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As the rain began to pour in Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Tuesday, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe turned the ball over three times in the first quarter, with the Tide falling behind 16-0.

Despite the relentless pass rush by the Wolverines, Milroe managed to settle in and close the gap to 19-13 in what proved to be a defensive slugfest.

The game almost turned out to be a comeback after a 35-yard punt return by Ryan Williams to set the Tide up near midfield with a chance to win the game. The Tide offense once again came up short near the red zone, turning the ball over on downs to give Michigan the ball back and the victory.

Milroe finished the game 16-32 through the air for 192 yards and a touchdown, with Germie Bernard leading the receiving corps with four catches for 80 yards.

Michigan won the game despite being out-gained by Alabama as the Tide managed 260 yards of total offense compared to the Wolverines' 190 yards.

The loss marks the first time since 2007 that Alabama finished a season with less than 10 wins.

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