TLDR: Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh has shifted the Rose Bowl practice focus, reducing physicality and emphasizing mental preparation. Players welcome the change, aiming to perform at their peak against Alabama.

After back-to-back College Football Playoff losses, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh is shaking things up in preparation for this year’s Rose Bowl clash against Alabama. The practice schedule now leans towards less contact, with players describing a refreshing mental approach. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy notes the team’s improved mental, physical, and spiritual freshness, attributing it to fewer full pads sessions: “It’s been a little bit of a toll off our body.”

Defensive tackle Kris Jenkins echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the effort to limit full-blown contact and tackle sessions, aiming to keep everyone fresh and injury-free. The team, sporting a 13-0 record, began its CFP preparation with key players nursing injuries. Despite this, linebacker Junior Colson sees the positive side, noting an increase in mental work and a decrease in physical demands.

Harbaugh’s adjustment comes in the wake of the team’s previous semifinal losses. Edge rusher Jaylen Harrell acknowledges the shift in mentality, expressing confidence in the team’s current state: “Our bodies are feeling good, our minds are feeling good. We’ve been competing on the days we compete — mentally locked in, but also getting after it.”

The Wolverines, making their third consecutive CFP appearance, are set to face Alabama, led by seasoned coach Nick Saban. Saban, with a wealth of CFP experience, highlighted the importance of finding the right balance in practice. Harbaugh seems to be following suit, and the Michigan players appear to be embracing the change with optimism.

Harbaugh’s team continues practicing into the Christmas holiday, gearing up for the Jan. 1 Rose Bowl. While Alabama’s Saban reflects on past practice strategies, Michigan’s approach reflects a commitment to mental preparation. As the Wolverines aim for their first victory in the CFP semifinal, the change in practice dynamics could be a game-changer.