Michigan’s special teams performance vs. Alabama shredded on social media

Michigan’s special teams has been, well, less than special thus far in the Rose Bowl vs. Alabama.

Early in the 1st quarter after the Wolverines defense forced a 3-and-out on Alabama’s 1st possession, Semaj Morgan muffed a punt, which directly led to a Crimson Tide touchdown just a few plays later. The Wolverines were later able to take a 13-7 2nd-quarter lead on a pretty Tyler Morris run-after-catch, but missed the ensuing extra point.

The stats at halftime heavily favor the Wolverines as they lead 13-10: they have more than doubled the Tide’s offensive yardage (199-96) and have 9 1st downs to Alabama’s 5. They’ve also sacked Jalen Milroe 4 times.

But the Michigan special teams have been a problem. And there’s a chance that the miscues in that department could loom much larger as the Wolverines are looking to avoid a 3rd straight loss in the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Here’s some of the social media reaction to Michigan’s special teams mistakes in the 1st half:

What a Special teams disaster. Muffed punt handing Bama a TD and a muffed extra point. Michigan should be up by 2 scores. Can’t ask any more of Jesse Minters defense!

— Pete (@IBCB21) January 1, 2024

Michigan dominating everything except special teams.

— GBB (@GoBlueBoulevard) January 1, 2024

Michigan would have a much more substantive lead if it weren’t for special team blunders.

— travis (@travisclones) January 1, 2024

Michigan’s special teams will likely be the death of them, whether it be this game or in the natty

— DocxRock???✝️ (@billyr09) January 1, 2024

If not for Michigan's special teams, this game is probably already over.

— Huskers Cook (@KCAvsFan9) January 1, 2024

Michigan has not made those mistakes all year. This game could be a lot worse right now if special teams mistakes weren’t killing them. Let’s go.

— Jorie Aulston (@JorieAulston) January 1, 2024

Michigan special teams today: pic.twitter.com/1S8bXIIZTa

— Footballism (@FootbaIIism) January 1, 2024

Man, Michigan special teams is having a rough time. If only they had a special teams coordinator ?

— Alicia de Artola Castillo (@PenguinOfTroy) January 1, 2024

Sydney Hunte

Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.