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Alabama

Dallas Turner analyzes what stands out about Michigan QB JJ McCarthy

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•12/21/23•

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Alabama LB Dallas Turner
Dallas Turner (Courtesy of Alabama Athletics)

Many have said the Rose Bowl between Alabama and Michigan will be decided in the trenches. One matchup might prove to be more important than the other, with Michigan‘s offensive line going up against the Alabama defensive line. Not just in the run game but giving JJ McCarthy time in the pocket when dropping back to throw.

Dallas Turner will be one of the pass rushers attempting to get to McCarthy. When speaking about the quarterback, you can certainly tell there is respect from Turner. Not just for his on-field play but presnap looks and making sure the Michigan offense is flowing in the right direction.

“He stands out in the way he runs that offense,” Turner said. “He’s kind of the general of that offense. He makes sure that they guys know what they’re doing. He’s a good quarterback overall and a good leader.”

Turner has played well in the past two games for Alabama when he’s been needed the most. He recorded a sack against Auburn in the Iron Bowl and another one the following week vs. Georgia in the SEC Championship game. Add in three tackles for a loss and Turner has been in the backfield a few times.

While there is respect for McCarthy, he’s certainly Turner’s next target. The Michigan offensive line has been banged up at times and gave up a few sacks against Iowa in the Big Ten Championship. McCarthy went down four times to the Hawkeyes — who arguably had the best defense the Wolverines faced all season.

Alabama will feel like they belong right up there as well. Turner, with Chris Braswell opposite of him, has been one of the best pass-rush duos in all of college football. Meanwhile, Michigan has prided itself on the offensive line for a few years now. The back-to-back Joe Moore Award winners might not be at the same level in 2023 but still want to impose their will.

Kickoff from the Granddaddy of Them All is scheduled for Jan. 1 at 5 p.m. ET and 2 p.m. PT. If Alabama is able to limit Michigan in the pass game, they surely will feel like they have a great chance of winning. Making the Wolverines one-dimensional may be the only way to beat them.

Turner being able to win some outside matchups and getting to McCarthy once or twice will be would be a huge difference.