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The Oklahoma Sooners will face the Alabama Crimson Tide tonight in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Oklahoma, ranked No. 8, enters the game with a 10-2 record and previously defeated Alabama, ranked No. 9, with a 10-3 record, earlier this season. The Sooners secured a 23-21 victory over the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa, capitalizing on three turnovers, including a pick-six. Despite Alabama's higher offensive output in that game, they couldn't overcome the turnover deficit.
This matchup marks the ninth meeting between the two teams, with Oklahoma leading the series 5-2-1. The Sooners are seeking their first-ever playoff win, having an 0-4 record in the College Football Playoff. Alabama, under coach Kalen DeBoer, is making its debut in the 12-team playoff format.
Alabama's roster is healthier now compared to their last encounter with Oklahoma. Running back Jam Miller is expected to return after missing the SEC Championship Game. However, defensive end LT Overton is likely to miss the game due to an illness. The Crimson Tide's running game has struggled, recording minus-3 rushing yards in their recent loss to Georgia.
Oklahoma's offense has also faced challenges, averaging only 26.4 points per game. Despite this, the Sooners have managed significant wins against ranked teams like Tennessee and Missouri. Tonight's game is crucial for both teams, with the winner advancing to face No. 1 Indiana in the CFP semifinals at the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day.