As the College Football Playoff begins its first round this Friday night, No. 9 Alabama heads to Norman to face No. 8 Oklahoma in a rematch that promises intensity and familiarity. The two storied programs will meet at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, with kickoff set for 8:00 p.m. Eastern and live national broadcast coverage on ABC and ESPN.

This postseason contest rekindles a rivalry that has seen dramatic outcomes in recent years. The Sooners claimed the first matchup this season, edging the Crimson Tide in a close contest, and currently hold a slight edge in series history. Both teams finished strong enough to earn double-digit win seasons, positioning this game as a pivotal first step on the road through the expanded 12-team playoff format.

Alabama enters the game with hopes of advancing deeper into the postseason, leaning on its balanced attack and SEC experience. The Crimson Tide’s quarterback, Ty Simpson, will be a focal point as Alabama seeks to reverse Oklahoma’s defensive pressure. For the Sooners, quarterback John Mateer and his supporting cast will aim to exploit opportunities at home and control the tempo early.

Oddsmakers have this matchup as one of the most competitive of the first round, with point spreads tight and bettors weighing both teams’ strengths and vulnerabilities. Low scoring and stout defensive play are common themes in projections, hinting at a classic postseason battle where field position, turnovers, and halftime adjustments could decide the outcome.

With emotions and stakes high, Alabama and Oklahoma are set for a marquee college football playoff showdown that could shape both programs’ postseason narratives.

Anything can happen in sports betting. Go with your gut because either way you GET 3 T-SHIRTS FROM THE FRIDAY BEERS STORE when you bet just $10+ on Alabama vs Oklahoma!