Alabama Crimson Tide (10–3) vs. Oklahoma Sooners (10–2) A CFP rematch featuring Alabama’s aerial firepower against Oklahoma’s elite defense

The 2025 College Football Playoff kicks off with a heavyweight showdown as #9 Alabama travels to Norman to face #8 Oklahoma in a rare playoff rematch. Just 34 days ago, the Sooners stunned the Tide in Tuscaloosa, 23–21. Now, with a playoff berth on the line, Alabama aims to avenge that loss and avoid losing twice to the same opponent in one season—something that has never happened in program history.

Oklahoma enters as one of the top defensive teams in the country, while Alabama leans on its explosive QB–WR tandem. Everything is on the line.

🏟️ Game Details

Matchup #9 Alabama (10–3) at #8 Oklahoma (10–2)Date Friday, December 19, 2025 Time 7:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM CT Location Gaylord Family–Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, OKTVESPN / ABC

This is only the second meeting between the teams this decade — and the highest-stakes matchup ever played between the programs.

🔥 The Matchup: Alabama’s Passing Game vs. Oklahoma’s Scorching Defense

Alabama Crimson Tide Preview (10–3)

Offensive fireworks and late-game resilience have defined Kalen DeBoer’s debut season at Alabama. The Tide enter the CFP after a loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship but remain one of the most dangerous offenses in the country.

Offense: Air Attack With a Freshman Star

Alabama ranks 18th nationally in passing offense (273.4 YPG). QB Ty Simpson has thrown for over 2,300 yards and thrives in rhythm, but he has struggled when pressured — a major concern against an elite Oklahoma front.

Freshman WR Ryan Williams is the most dangerous player on the field, with his game-breaking speed and route precision creating explosive plays even against elite defenses.

The weakness: A rushing attack that ranks 123rd nationally (103.8 YPG), putting enormous pressure on the passing game.

Defense: Elite in the Red Zone

Alabama’s defense allows just 17.4 PPG (12th nationally). They are especially strong against the pass (9th nationally), but injuries—especially LT Overton being doubtful—may limit their pass rush.

Oklahoma Sooners Preview (10–2)

Under Brent Venables, Oklahoma has reinvented itself as a defensive machine. The Sooners host a CFP game thanks to the nation’s most ferocious defensive front and a physical, methodical offense.

Offense: Tough, Clock-Control Football

QB John Mateer is a dual-threat who leads the team in rushing TDs. Oklahoma averages only 26.4 PPG, lowest among 10-win teams, but they specialize in long, punishing drives that shrink the game.

Defense: The Best Unit in the Playoff Field

This defense is elite:

• #1 in the nation in sacks (3.42 per game)

• #3 in rushing defense (78.2 YPG)

• Top 10 in yards per play allowed

DE R. Mason Thomas returns from injury at the perfect time, and CB Eli Bowen is coming off a pick-six in the November meeting.

This defense is built to stop Alabama’s offense.

TOP 4 PROP BETS FOR ALABAMA VS OKLAHOMA

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1. Ty Simpson Over 238.5 Passing Yards

Alabama’s run game has struggled all season, meaning Simpson will face heavy volume in a hostile environment. Oklahoma’s pass rush is elite, but if Simpson gets time, Alabama’s playmakers can exploit the secondary.

DraftKings

4.6/5

Tip: Ty Simpson over 238.5 passing yards

• High-volume passing offense
• Alabama relies on explosive throws
• OU secondary gives up chunk plays

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2. Ryan Williams Anytime Touchdown

Williams is the most explosive player on the field. Alabama designs touches for him in the red zone, on deep shots, and on screens. If the Tide score, he is the most likely candidate.

BetMGM

4.5/5

Tip: Ryan Williams anytime TD

• Freshman star playmaker
• Alabama’s top red-zone target
• OU likely forced into single coverage at times

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3. John Mateer Over 49.5 Rushing Yards

Mateer’s legs are Oklahoma’s engine. Alabama struggled containing his scrambles in the first meeting. Expect designed QB runs and scrambles again in a playoff environment.

FanDuel

4.6/5

Tip: John Mateer over 49.5 rushing yards

• Dual-threat centerpiece
• Alabama pressure opens lanes
• High-usage in red zone

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4. Under 40.5 Total Points

Both defenses are elite, and both offenses are inconsistent. The first meeting totaled just 44 points — with multiple red-zone stalls. Expect another physical, low-scoring defensive battle.

Caesars

4.5/5

Tip: Under 40.5 points

• Two elite defenses
• Both offenses struggle in red zone
• Playoff intensity slows pace

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🎯 Final Prediction

This is a brutal, physical matchup featuring two of the best defenses in the country.

• Alabama has the talent edge.

• Oklahoma has the defensive identity and home-field advantage.

The Sooners’ ability to pressure Ty Simpson without blitzing will be the deciding factor.

Final Score: Oklahoma 20, Alabama 17