The Michigan Wolverines allowed the sixth-fewest rushing yards per game (87.1) in the country this season, but that didn’t matter on Alabama’s second possession of Monday’s College Football Playoff semifinal matchup.
After recovering a Michigan fumble during a punt return, Alabama senior running back Jase McClellan took a first-down handoff from quarterback Jalen Milroe, burst through the line and outraced the Wolverine defense for a 34-yard touchdown run to get the Crimson Tide on the board first.
JASE MCCLELLAN AND BAMA STRIKE FIRST IN PASADENA‼️#CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/KdmAVKPTr4
— ESPN (@espn) January 1, 2024
McClellan had two carries for 40 yards and a score at time of publication, nearly accounting for nearly half of the total rush yards Michigan’s defense typically allows per game.
The 5-foot-11 senior was Alabama’s leading rusher this season, logging 803 yards on 166 carries (both team highs) while averaging 4.8 yards per carry.
He also added six rushing touchdowns — second-most behind Milroe — and contributed 13 receptions for 26 yards.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!