All the odds info you need for Michigan vs. Alabama in the Citrus Bowl

The Michigan Wolverines and Alabama Crimson Tide square off in the 2020 VRBO Citrus Bowl, in a matchup that is more shocking for the bowl game than the fact that it’s actually happening.

Alabama opened the season at +250 to win yet another national title, just behind Clemson at +175. Michigan opened the season at +1800. They were longer shots than the likes of Georgia and Ohio State, but close enough to be in the mix. If you told a fan back in August that Alabama and Michigan were paired up in the postseason, people would think it was one of the College Football Playoff semifinal games.

Instead, it’s a New Year’s Day Bowl, Tua Tagovailoa is sidelined after dislocating his hip, and Michigan was pummeled once again by Ohio State. It’s a premier matchup, but it could end up meaning a little more for Michigan than Alabama.

Alabama opened as a seven-point favorite at DraftKings Sportsbook. The line has yet to move, but we are still waiting to hear what potential draft prospects might choose to sit out the game. Most sports bettors are likely waiting to see who actually plays before making their betting decisions.

Television, Streaming options

Date: Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Channel: ABC
Live Stream: WatchESPN

Odds

Alabama -7, 58.5

Initial Betting Analysis

Alabama is the better team, but we have no idea how many draft prospects will sit out the game. We also don’t know how Alabama might respond in a game that will be the first non CFP bowl game for any player on the current roster. Maybe they’re relaxed without the stress of the playoff, or maybe they are a little too relaxed for the game. Before we can make a pick, we have to see how many players sit out the game.

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Odds and lines subject to change. See website for details.