ReliaQuest Opt-Outs and Injury Report: Top Alabama and Michigan Players Not Playing
As the 2024 college football bowl season continues, the highly anticipated ReliaQuest Bowl has garnered significant attention. Fans were eager to see powerhouse teams Alabama and Michigan square off, but recent injury updates and player opt-outs have left some major gaps in both rosters. These developments could have a considerable impact on the outcome of the game, as key players from both sides will be sidelined for various reasons. Here’s a breakdown of the top Alabama and Michigan players who will not be participating in the game and the potential effects on the teams.
Alabama: Key Players Sitting Out
Alabama, known for its dominant football program under head coach Nick Saban, is entering the ReliaQuest Bowl with a mix of excitement and disappointment, as a few of their top players have opted out or are dealing with injuries. Among the notable names who will not be playing are:
- Will Anderson Jr. (LB)
One of the most feared linebackers in college football this season, Will Anderson Jr. has decided to opt out of the game to prepare for the NFL Draft. Anderson, who is projected as a top pick, has been a game-changer for the Crimson Tide all year long. His absence will be felt deeply, as his ability to rush the passer and control the line of scrimmage has been a key part of Alabama’s defensive scheme. - Bryce Young (QB)
The Heisman Trophy winner and starting quarterback for Alabama, Bryce Young has also opted out of the ReliaQuest Bowl. With Young now preparing for the NFL Draft, Alabama will need to lean on backup quarterback Jalen Milroe. While Milroe has had some playing time this season, his ability to replicate Young’s poise and playmaking ability in such a high-stakes bowl game will be a major storyline to watch. - Jahmyr Gibbs (RB)
Alabama’s standout running back, Jahmyr Gibbs, has declared for the NFL Draft and will not play in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Gibbs has been crucial to the offense this season, providing explosive plays both in the running game and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. His absence creates a significant void in the Crimson Tide’s offensive plans. - Eli Ricks (CB)
Eli Ricks, one of Alabama’s top cornerbacks, has decided to opt out as well. Ricks, known for his ability to shut down receivers, would have been a key asset in the secondary against Michigan’s passing attack. Without him, Alabama’s defensive backfield will face a much tougher challenge.
Michigan: Key Injuries and Opt-Outs
On the other side of the field, Michigan, led by head coach Jim Harbaugh, is also dealing with its fair share of injuries and opt-outs. Several key players will not take the field for the Wolverines in the ReliaQuest Bowl:
- Blake Corum (RB)
One of the most dynamic running backs in college football, Blake Corum has been nursing a knee injury for much of the latter part of the season. Although Corum has been one of the best backs in the country, he has opted to skip the bowl game to focus on his recovery and preparation for the NFL Draft. Michigan will turn to Donovan Edwards to carry the load in the backfield, but replacing Corum’s production will be no easy task. - DJ Turner (CB)
DJ Turner, Michigan’s top cornerback, will also sit out the game. Turner has been a critical part of Michigan’s secondary, often tasked with locking down opposing wide receivers. His absence will force the Wolverines to lean on their depth in the secondary, which could leave them vulnerable against Alabama’s passing attack. - Mazi Smith (DT)
Mazi Smith, one of Michigan’s key defensive linemen, will also be missing from the lineup due to injury. Smith’s ability to clog up the middle of the defensive line and disrupt the opposing offense has been a key aspect of Michigan’s defensive identity. Without him, the Wolverines may struggle to contain Alabama’s powerful offensive line and running game. - Ronnie Bell (WR)
While not officially opting out, Ronnie Bell, Michigan’s top wide receiver, has been dealing with injuries throughout the season. Although he is expected to play, his health will be a concern going into the game. Bell’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays in the passing game will be vital to Michigan’s offensive success.
Impact on the Game
The absence of key players on both teams will significantly alter the dynamics of the ReliaQuest Bowl. For Alabama, the loss of Bryce Young and Will Anderson Jr. leaves holes on both sides of the ball. The Crimson Tide will have to rely on Jalen Milroe to step up at quarterback, while the defense will need to adjust to life without Anderson’s pressure and leadership.
For Michigan, the loss of Blake Corum is especially crucial, as he has been the engine of their offense. With Corum out, Edwards will need to be at his best to carry the load in the running game. Defensively, the absence of DJ Turner and Mazi Smith presents significant challenges for the Wolverines, who will have to find ways to stop Alabama’s potent offense without two of their key playmakers.
While both teams have talented depth, these absences will make for a highly unpredictable matchup in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Fans can expect a closely contested game, but with so many star players sitting out or dealing with injuries, the outcome could come down to how well the remaining players step up in the spotlight.
Conclusion
The opt-outs and injuries for both Alabama and Michigan highlight the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where NFL-bound players often make the difficult decision to forgo bowl games in order to prepare for the next level. While this leaves some glaring holes in both teams’ rosters, it also sets the stage for lesser-known players to step up and make their mark. The ReliaQuest Bowl promises to be an exciting, if unpredictable, contest, as both teams will have to adapt without some of their most talented and impactful players.
