While most of the attention on the final play of the Rose Bowl focused either on the shaky play call from Alabama or Michigan coming up with the stop, another significant development occurred on the play. Alabama’s JC Latham, a likely first-round pick, was hurt.
Mike Rodak of 247 Sports reported on Twitter/X that the Crimson Tide right tackle was hurt on the final play, saying that “Latham was injured on the final play and helped off.”
He also shared a photo of Latham walking off of the field with assistance from Alabama trainers.
Alabama RT JC Latham was injured on the final play and helped off. He is a potential first round pick in April. pic.twitter.com/eM4MWxRHuA
— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) January 2, 2024
On the game’s final play, Latham was knocked back toward quarterback Jalen Milroe by Michigan edge rusher Josaiah Stewart. It looked as though Milroe might have actually tripped over Latham’s leg. But regardless, being knocked into Milroe’s caused the quarterback’s running lane to collapse and was vital in why the fourth down play failed for Alabama.
As the camera panned toward the Michigan celebration at midfield, Latham was seen remaining on the ground, grabbing his leg.
" It's Williams in motion. Low snap. MILROE STOPPED. MICHIGAN MAKES A STAND AND COMES UP WITH A MILESTONE PLAYOFF VICTORY."
Chris Fowler on the call for the Final play of the Rose Bowl.
Michigan beats Alabama 27-20 in overtime. pic.twitter.com/NFjkAGZKiT
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 2, 2024
Latham, a 6-foot-6, 360 pound junior, has been projected as possible top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Even more moderate projections have Latham getting selected somewhere in the first round.
[Mike Rodak on Twitter/X]
