Alabama did many things right in the Rose Bowl, with the underdog Crimson Tide on the brink of victory in the CFP National Semifinal.
But when things counted most, on the decisive and final play of the game and (as it turned out) season, Alabama failed in epic fashion. Unfortunately, that might be what fans remember most from this game.
The Michigan Wolverines defeated Alabama, 27-20, in overtime Monday to advance to the national championship. But it’s the way the game ended that infuriated many Alabama fans and left other fans scratching their heads at the play call.
After Michigan scored a TD on the first OT possession, Alabama advanced the ball to the 3-yard line. But on fourth down, with everything on the line, quarterback Jalen Milroe took the snap and ran straight ahead, into a solid wall of Michigan defenders and his own blockers.
A curious play call, to be sure, and the fact there was a low snap on the play complicated the chances of success. But the play appeared doomed from the start.
Head coach Nick Saban is ultimately responsible for the call, but offensive coordinator Tommy Rees dialed it up. Either way, many Crimson Tide fans were livid at the decision. And it turned what had been an admirable Alabama effort into a punchline to a bad joke.
[Photo Credit: ESPN]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.