Alabama football vs. Michigan final score, highlights from Crimson Tide's Rose Bowl loss

 The Rose Bowl stage was set for a titanic clash - No. 4 Alabama, seeking revenge for the regular season defeat, facing off against No. 1 Michigan, hungry for their first national championship appearance in decades. However, the script flipped, and Crimson Tide's dreams turned to heartbreak as the Wolverines emerged victorious in a nail-biting 27-20 overtime thriller.

Early on, Alabama seemed in control, riding a dominant defense and the electric play of quarterback Jalen Milroe. Bryce Young's absence due to injury cast a shadow, but Milroe found his rhythm, connecting with JoJo Earle for a stunning touchdown that ignited the crimson faithful. Yet, Michigan's vaunted defense refused to buckle, forcing turnovers and keeping the Tide offense in check.

The second half became a chess match, with both teams trading blows. Blake Corum, Michigan's workhorse running back, found the end zone twice, his second bringing the Wolverines within a hair's breadth at 20-17. With time ticking down, J.J. McCarthy orchestrated a last-gasp drive, culminating in a laser-focused touchdown toss to Roman Wilson, sending the Rose Bowl into a frenzy as the game headed to overtime.

Tension hung heavy in the Pasadena air as overtime unfolded. Alabama marched down the field, Milroe showcasing his dual-threat skills. But just as they reached the Michigan 3-yard line, disaster struck. Milroe, entrusted with the game-winning play, was met by a wall of Wolverines, his quarterback run stuffed an inch short of the goal line. Michigan erupted, storming the field as champions, while Alabama players lay strewn across the turf, their dreams shattered.

This wasn't just a victory, it was a statement. Michigan had exorcised the demons of past playoff failures, proving they belonged amongst the college football elite. For Alabama, the sting of defeat ran deep, a reminder that even dynasties like theirs can be toppled. The Rose Bowl witnessed a classic, a heart-stopping battle that etched itself into college football lore, leaving both elation and despair in its wake.