Big House Bleachers: Michigan Is #1 for the First Time in 25 Years, Set to Face Alabama in the Rose Bowl

In the latest episode of the “Big House Bleachers” podcast, co-hosts Michael Smeltzer and Matt Hartwell celebrate Michigan football’s third consecutive Big Ten championship and their top seeding in the college football playoff. The episode features a spirited debate over the playoff committee’s controversial decision to include Alabama instead of Florida State in the top four. Despite differing opinions, the co-hosts delve into an analysis of the upcoming Rose Bowl, where top-seeded Michigan Wolverines face off against fourth-seeded Alabama Crimson Tide, with the victor advancing to compete against the winner of the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Washington.

Michigan's Blake Corum and Jaylen Harrell celebrate their third-straight Big Ten Championship.
Michigan's Blake Corum and Jaylen Harrell celebrate their third-straight Big Ten Championship. Photo: Isaiah Hole

As the episode progresses, Michael and Matt reflect on Michigan’s journey, particularly their recent 26-0 victory over Iowa in the Big Ten championship game. They highlight how Michigan’s defense capitalized on Iowa’s weak offense, while acknowledging that Michigan’s offense occasionally struggled against Iowa’s robust defense. Despite the game’s lackluster aesthetics, they emphasize Michigan’s undefeated streak, now at 13-0, as a significant achievement.

A key segment of the podcast is the presentation of the “This Guy Right Here” award, recognizing outstanding players, with a special mention of Semaj Morgan and Mike Sainristil. Michael Smeltzer and Matt Hartwell will return with more insights into college football and basketball in future episodes of “Big House Bleachers.”

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