Alabama Welcomes Oklahoma in Key SEC Clash
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – No.8 Alabama will host Oklahoma this Saturday in a pivotal matchup between two Top 25 teams, offering a significant test for both programs as they navigate the remainder of their seasons. The game presents an prospect for Alabama to solidify its position in the SEC standings and bolster its College Football Playoff aspirations, while Oklahoma seeks a statement victory to elevate its national profile.
This contest carries significant weight for both fanbases and conference prestige. Alabama (currently unranked in the AP Poll) aims to build momentum following a 20-9 victory over LSU, while Oklahoma (also unranked) rides the energy of a 33-27 win against Tennessee. The outcome will heavily influence each team’s trajectory toward potential postseason opportunities and divisional championships.
Statistical Snapshot
Alabama’s offensive profile leans toward a balanced attack, averaging 181.8 passing yards and 82.4 rushing yards per game. They score an average of 14.1 points per game and convert 47.6% of third downs, ranking 21st in FBS. Defensively, Alabama boasts a +10 turnover margin, eighth-best nationally, and limits opponents to 43.8 penalty yards per game (25th in FBS). Their red zone offense is efficient, scoring on 92.1% of opportunities (16th in FBS), and they maintain possession for an average of 32:18 per game (17th in FBS).
Oklahoma, however, struggles in key areas. The Sooners have a negative turnover margin (-5, 112th in FBS) and are penalized frequently, averaging 63.1 yards per game (109th in FBS). Their red zone defense allows opponents to score on 84.2% of trips (66th in FBS), and they average 30:00 in time of possession (68th in FBS).
Key players to Watch
Alabama’s passing attack is led by quarterback Ty Simpson, who has thrown for 2,461 yards, 21 touchdowns, and only one interception, completing 66.9% of his passes. Running back Jamarion Miller has carried the ball 88 times for 321 yards and two touchdowns, while receiver Germie Bernard has 41 receptions for 605 yards and six touchdowns.
For Oklahoma, quarterback John Mateer has 1,949 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions with a 63.8% completion rate. Tory Blaylock leads the Sooners’ rushing attack with 403 yards and four touchdowns on 94 carries. Isaiah Sategna is the primary receiving threat, with 49 catches for 692 yards and five touchdowns.
Recent Performance
in their last outing, Alabama defeated LSU 20-9 on November 8.Simpson completed 21 of 35 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown. Daniel Hill contributed a rushing touchdown, while Germie Bernard had three receptions for 79 yards.
Oklahoma secured a 33-27 victory over Tennessee on November 1. Mateer threw for 159 yards with one interception and also rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown. Xavier Robinson led the ground game with 115 yards and a touchdown, and Isaiah Sategna had six receptions for 68 yards.
Looking Ahead
Following this weekend’s matchup, Alabama will host Eastern Illinois on November 22.Oklahoma will also play on November 22, hosting no. 19 Missouri.
