TAMPA, Fla. — The last time Michigan football played in Tampa, in what was then the Outback Bowl, all of the hype surrounding the team was about a quarterback who was incoming. Apparently, the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Alabama football held its first ReliaQuest Bowl practice in Tampa on Friday at Berkeley Preparatory School. The Crimson Tide is preparing for a matchup against Michigan on Tuesday at 11 a.m. CT at Raymond James Stadium.

TAMPA, Fla. — Jaylen Mbakwe is back on offense. In Alabama football's first practice ahead of Tuesday's ReliaQuest Bowl against Michigan, the freshman cornerback is practicing with the wide receivers, a position he played at Clay-Chalkville High School in Pinson, Alabama.

The Wolverines also have another linebacker that Alabama fans need to know Jaishawn Barham, a junior as well. Barham, a transfer from the Maryland Terrapins, is Michigan’s second-leading tackler at 65 for the season, while also having recorded four TFL, one sack, and two PD in what is one of the top years of his collegiate career so far.

Everything you need to know, including TV and radio information, about the second straight bowl matchup between the Crimson Tide and Wolverines.

Alabama football will see a familiar team before the Crimson Tide ends its 2024 season.

The 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl kicks off at 11 a.m. on New Year’s Eve at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. ESPN will broadcast the game live.

Footage from the Crimson Tide's Friday practice in Tampa, including Kalen DeBoer, Jalen Milroe, Ryan Williams and Jaylen Mbakwe at wide receiver.