The College Football Playoff opens Friday night with a rematch between No. 9 Alabama (10-3) and No. 8 Oklahoma (10-2). The Sooners won the regular-season meeting on Nov. 15 in Tuscaloosa, 23-21, thanks to three Alabama turnovers, including a pick-six. Alabama outgained Oklahoma 406-212 in total yards but could not overcome the mistakes. Now, we get Alabama vs Oklahoma in Norman. Kickoff at 8 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN. The winner advances to the Rose Bowl quarterfinal against No. 1 Indiana on Jan. 1.
Alabama vs Oklahoma Keys to the Game
Here are the Alabama vs Oklahoma keys to the game for you.
- Turnover Battle
Alabama committed three turnovers in the first meeting, leading directly to 17 Oklahoma points. The Crimson Tide rank well in turnover margin overall, but protecting the ball against Oklahoma’s aggressive defense will decide the outcome. Oklahoma forces mistakes with pressure and has key players like pass-rusher R. Mason Thomas returning. - Run Game and Offensive Line Play
Alabama struggled to run the ball late in the season, including minus yards against Georgia in the SEC title game. Running back Jam Miller returns for this game, which could help balance the offense led by quarterback Ty Simpson. Oklahoma’s run defense ranks among the best, allowing few big gains. - Home-Field Advantage and Defense
Playing in Norman gives Oklahoma an edge, especially with a crowd boosting the defense. Both teams feature strong defenses: Oklahoma allows few points, while Alabama limits yards. The game could stay low-scoring, with the over/under at 40.5. - Quarterback Performance Under Pressure
Ty Simpson for Alabama and John Mateer for Oklahoma both face heavy blitzes. Simpson threw for over 300 yards in the first game but had costly picks. Mateer manages games well but the Sooners offense has scored few touchdowns recently.
Alabama vs Oklahoma Predictions
This matchup looks close, with Oklahoma favored by 1.5 points at home. Many models and experts split, but the consensus leans toward a defensive game.
SportsBrackets.net pick: Alabama 20, Oklahoma 17. The Crimson Tide avoid turnovers, use returning players for balance, and win on the road to advance.
Get your bracket ready before kickoff:
- Printable 2025-26 CFP Bracket PDF
- First-Round Pick’em Sheet
- College Football Playoff First Round Predictions
Track perfect brackets live on NCAA.com after the game.
