Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe (4) runs against Michigan Wolverines defensive back Rod Moore (9) in overtime in the 2024 Rose Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Rose Bowl. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Alabama makes head-scratching call on fourth down in OT loss to Michigan

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 1/2/24

Michigan defeated Alabama, 27-20, in overtime to head to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 8. It was a goal-line stand by Michigan's defense that secured the win but Alabama's call on fourth down surely didn't set it up for success.

On fourth-and-goal at the 3-yard line, Alabama called a designed quarterback run play that resulted in no gain, ending the team's hopes of making it to the championship game.

JALEN MILROE IS STOPPED ON 4TH DOWN

THE WOLVERINES ARE HEADED TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/X2x3tPzwqr
— ESPN (@espn) January 2, 2024

A low snap didn't help but the play seemed set up to fail from the start. Michigan's defense had held QB Jalen Milroe to just 63 yards on 20 carries before the final play of the game, which is why many are scratching their heads at why that was the play call to try and tie the game.

Michigan now heads to its first CFP National Championship Game. The last time the Wolverines won a national championship was in 1997.

If they hope to end their drought, the defense, which has allowed the second least total yards per game (239.7), will need to continue playing stout against one of the top offenses in college football. Texas (475.9) and Washington (469.1) each rank in the top 10 in total yards per game this year.

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