Michigan Football: Former Michigan safety shares Significant Rose Bowl story that ultimately helped him

Former Michigan safety Keon Sabb entered the transfer portal on February 16. Just four days later, he not only committed to Alabama but was already enrolled there. This was a significant setback for the Wolverines’ defense. As a sophomore, Sabb played a key role for Michigan in 2023, contributing substantially to their secondary.

Currently, Michigan ranks 115th in the nation for passing defense, and with veteran Rod Moore injured this spring, it’s evident that Sabb’s presence would have been beneficial in 2024. The new Alabama safety recently discussed his move to Tuscaloosa during an appearance on The New Wave podcast, hosted by Alabama football players.

“It was a pretty smooth transition,” Sabb said about leaving Michigan for Alabama. “All the players and teammates welcomed me, making it easy. Nobody was distant because of my background at Michigan.”

Sabb ranks fourth on the Alabama team with 25 tackles and leads the defense with two interceptions. He relied heavily on his father when deciding to leave the Wolverines, expressing that he wouldn’t change his choice.

“My dad was my main support during this decision,” Sabb explained. “He’s always been there to guide me and has helped me get this far. My dad and my brothers visited Alabama before, which helped too.

“It’s about having trust in the legacy of this school [Alabama] and believing in the process. Trusting Coach [Kalen] Deboer and everything. I believe it was a smart decision, and I’m very glad I made it.”

Interestingly, Michigan defeated Alabama in the Rose Bowl last season, allowing them to advance to the National Championship Game. Sabb described the Rose Bowl as a significant experience for him, noting that Alabama’s physical play influenced his decision to join their team.

“The Rose Bowl was probably my favorite game or atmosphere I’ve ever experienced,” Sabb stated. “It was incredibly physical. Alabama really brought their A-game. That was our toughest challenge when I played for Michigan. They played hard across special teams, offense, and defense—those guys really went after it. That intensity contributed to my decision to come here, to another team that exhibits that toughness and grit.”

Although Sabb has moved on from Michigan, he will always cherish his connection to the Wolverines’ program, leaving as a national champion. He and his new teammates aim to replicate that achievement in 2024 with the Crimson Tide.

“I got to start in the National Championship Game,” Sabb recalled. “I didn’t start the Rose Bowl, but I did in that one because someone got hurt. I feel like I played one of my best games in the championship. It didn’t fully hit me until afterward, seeing it all—I was really there, making plays and doing my job.”