Who Won the Cotton Bowl 2025? Michigan Defeats Alabama

By Sarah Miller · December 30, 2045

The 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic was won by the Michigan Wolverines, who defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide with a final score of 34-27 in a thrilling semifinal matchup on January 1, 2025. The game, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, served as a College Football Playoff semifinal and featured standout performances from Michigan quarterback Davis Warren and running back Donovan Edwards, propelling the Wolverines into the National Championship game.

Overview of the 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic

The 89th edition of the Cotton Bowl Classic hosted one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2024–2025 college football season. As a designated College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal, the game carried significant weight, with a spot in the national title game on the line.

Key Details

Date: January 1, 2025
Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Teams: #1 Michigan Wolverines vs. #4 Alabama Crimson Tide
Result: Michigan 34, Alabama 27
MVP: Donovan Edwards, RB, Michigan
Attendance: 84,125

Game Highlights and Key Moments

The game was tightly contested throughout, with both teams showcasing elite offensive and defensive strategies. Michigan seized control in the third quarter after a pivotal turnover.

Critical Turning Points

Alabama led 17–14 at halftime after a strong second-quarter drive capped by a Jalen Milroe touchdown run.
Midway through the third quarter, Michigan's defense forced a fumble recovered by Mike Sainristil, leading to a go-ahead touchdown by Donovan Edwards.
Edwards rushed for 161 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial 48-yard burst in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
Davis Warren threw for 227 yards and one touchdown, managing the game efficiently under pressure.

Team Performance Analysis

Both programs entered the game with championship aspirations. Michigan finished the regular season undefeated (13–0), claiming the Big Ten title. Alabama, champions of the SEC, entered with a 12–1 record after defeating Tennessee in the conference championship.

Statistic	Michigan	Alabama
First Downs	22	19
Total Yards	412	368
Rushing Yards	198	142
Passing Yards	214	226
Turnovers	1	2
Time of Possession	33:18	26:42
Third Down Efficiency	7/13	5/12

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical edge favored Michigan in key areas such as time of possession and turnover margin. Their ability to sustain drives and capitalize on Alabama’s mistakes proved decisive. Michigan’s balanced offensive attack and disciplined defense limited Alabama’s explosive playmakers in critical moments.

Path to the Cotton Bowl

Michigan secured their playoff berth by winning the Big Ten Championship Game against Ohio State, continuing their dominance in the conference. Alabama earned their spot by winning the SEC Championship against LSU and receiving a favorable ranking from the CFP selection committee.

Post-Game Implications

Michigan advanced to the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship game.
The victory marked Michigan’s first-ever win over Alabama in bowl history.
Donovan Edwards was widely praised as the game MVP, solidifying his legacy in program history.
The loss ended Alabama’s national title hopes but highlighted their continued status as a powerhouse program.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Cotton Bowl

Who won the Cotton Bowl in 2025?

The Michigan Wolverines won the 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic, defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide 34–27 in a College Football Playoff semifinal game.

Was the 2025 Cotton Bowl a playoff game?

Yes, the 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic was designated as a College Football Playoff semifinal, with the winner advancing to the National Championship game.

Where was the 2025 Cotton Bowl played?

The game was played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the traditional host venue for the Cotton Bowl Classic.

Who was named MVP of the 2025 Cotton Bowl?

Michigan running back Donovan Edwards was named MVP after rushing for 161 yards and two touchdowns, including a key fourth-quarter run that helped secure the victory.

What was the final score of the 2025 Cotton Bowl?

The final score was Michigan 34, Alabama 27.

Did Michigan beat Alabama in previous bowl meetings?

No, prior to 2025, Michigan had never beaten Alabama in a bowl game, losing in the 2022 Citrus Bowl. This victory marked their first win over Alabama in postseason history.