For the first time in the playoff era, Alabama did not make the top four and will instead take on Michigan in the Citrus Bowl on New Years Day.

How They Got Here: Michigan

Once again, Michigan came in with high expectations for the 2019 season. But like every year, they always lose a game early in the season, and then lose to Ohio State. They finished the season with a record of 9-3 and a Big Ten record of 6-3.

After a rough first half of the season on offense, first-year offensive coordinator Josh Gattis turned the corner in the second half against PSU, sparking a four-game winning streak until Ohio State came to town.

How They Got Here: Alabama

Alabama missed out on the College Football Playoff for the first time in the format’s history. led by QB Tua Tagovailoa and a host of talented wideouts. They finished the season with a record of 10-2 and an SEC record of 6-2.

Alabama fell 46-41 to Joe Burrow and LSU in a one vs two matchup. The following week, Alabama lost Tagovailoa to a season-ending hip injury in a win over Mississippi State. That forced Mac Jones into the starting role for the Iron Bowl, which Alabama lost 48-45. The loss knocked Alabama from CFP consideration.

Players To Watch:

Alabama: Mac Jones

The loss of Tagovailoa was crushing for Alabama. They will have to rely on Jones for the future as it is most likely that Tagovailoa will leave for the NFL. Jones has been decent, but obviously struggled against Auburn.

Michigan: Shea Patterson

Michigan seems to go however Patterson goes. If he is good, Michigan is a good team. If he is off, Michigan can’t do anything right. In what will be his last game in college, Patterson has a lot to prove if he wants a shot at the NFL.

Gambling: Alabama -7 O/U 58.5

Hammer Alabama. Michigan stinks. That is all.