Alabama has clinched a spot in the highly anticipated four-team College Football Playoff, marking the final installment before the expansion to 12 teams in 2024. The stage is now set for the 2023 playoff, revealed on Sunday morning, with Alabama coming in at #4 and set to face #1 Ranked Michigan on January 1st in the historic Rose Bowl.
Final Rankings
1. Michigan (13-0)
2. Washington (13-0)
3. Texas (12-1)
4. Alabama (12-1)
Alabama secured its coveted spot in the final four of the College Football Playoff with a thrilling victory over Georgia in the SEC Championship game. The Crimson Tide triumphed over the formidable Georgia squad with a final score of 27-24. This crucial win not only clinched Alabama’s position in the playoff but also underscored their resilience and determination to compete at the highest level. As the playoff landscape unfolds, Alabama’s impressive performance against Georgia serves as a defining moment in their pursuit of the national championship.
Alabama’s spot in the playoffs was not without its share of controversy. Florida State, the unbeaten ACC champion, added a layer of intrigue to the playoff selection. Despite their unbeaten record and clinching the ACC title with a hard-fought win over No. 14 Louisville, Florida State found themselves ranked just outside the top four at No. 5 in the final College Football Playoff standings.
The absence of starting quarterback Jordan Travis, sidelined due to injury, was evident as the Seminoles struggled to beat Louisville. This, coupled with the ongoing unavailability of Travis in the playoffs, emerged as a key factor in the playoff selection debate.
Now, the Crimson Tide is set to take a well-deserved break before gearing up for the upcoming semifinal clash against Michigan. The preparations for this crucial matchup in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day will mark the next phase in Alabama’s journey toward college football greatness. With a win over Michigan, the Tide will face the winner of #2 Washington vs. #3 Texas in the Sugar Bowl.
College Football Playoff Games
No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 4 Alabama in the Rose Bowl, 4 p.m. CT
No. 2 Washington vs. No. 3 Texas in the Sugar Bowl, 7:45 p.m. CT
