Alabama Faces Oklahoma in CFP First Round Showdown

The College Football Playoff first round features a rematch between No. 9 Alabama and No. 8 Oklahoma, taking place on Friday, December 19, at 8 p.m. ET in Norman, Oklahoma. This matchup is significant as it marks the second meeting between these teams in just five weeks, with Oklahoma having previously won 23-21 in Tuscaloosa on November 15.

Both teams are entering this playoff with contrasting momentum; Oklahoma has won four straight games to finish the regular season, while Alabama has struggled, losing two of its last three games, including a 28-7 defeat to Georgia in the SEC Championship.

According to Deadspin, Oklahoma's defense has been a standout, ranking second nationally in defensive success rate, which is crucial as Alabama's offense has shown vulnerabilities this season, particularly in their first matchup where they outgained the Sooners but lost due to turnovers.

Health updates indicate that Oklahoma defensive lineman R Mason Thomas is available after recovering from an injury, while Alabama will be without defensive end LT Overton due to illness. With Alabama aiming to improve their playoff record and Oklahoma seeking their first playoff victory in program history, the stakes are high in this pivotal playoff game.