The Oklahoma Sooners aim to rebound from their recent struggles as they prepare to host the Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Under 47.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Alabama vs. Oklahoma
Saturday, November 23, 2024 – 07:30 PM ET at Memorial Stadium
Alabama Dominates Mercer
Jalen Milroe showcased his versatility in just over two quarters, leading Alabama to a dominant 52-7 win over FCS opponent Mercer on Saturday. The Crimson Tide, laser-focused on solidifying their playoff resume and contending for the SEC crown, displayed their offensive firepower from the outset.
Milroe accounted for three touchdowns, completing 11 of 16 passes for 186 yards, including a 44-yard strike to tight end Robbie Ouzts. He added a three-yard rushing touchdown, his 17th of the season, and tallied 43 yards on six carries. Ryan Williams added to the offensive onslaught with a 29-yard rushing touchdown and a 14-yard touchdown catch, showcasing his ability to make plays in multiple phases of the game.
Alabama held a commanding 31-7 lead at halftime, allowing backups, including Ty Simpson, to take over in the second half. Simpson completed 5 of 10 passes for 71 yards, as Alabama continued to dominate in a game that underscored the depth and strength of its roster.
Missouri Stuns Oklahoma
Missouri pulled off a thrilling 30-23 upset over Oklahoma on November 9, thanks to a dramatic 17-yard fumble return for a touchdown by Zion Young in the closing seconds.
Oklahoma had led 9-3 at halftime, fueled by three field goals from Zach Schmit, including a career-best 56-yarder that tied for the third-longest in program history. However, turnovers plagued the Sooners throughout the game, as they fumbled six times and lost four.
Jackson Arnold struggled to generate momentum, completing 15 of 24 passes for 74 yards without a touchdown or interception. He contributed 45 rushing yards on 17 carries and caught an 18-yard touchdown pass from Taylor Tatum in a rare offensive highlight. Xavier Robinson added 56 rushing yards on nine carries, while Deion Burks collected five receptions for 44 yards, but the Sooners’ inability to protect the ball ultimately sealed their fate.
Keys to the Game
Milroe’s dual-threat capabilities present a major challenge for Oklahoma’s defense. His combination of accurate passing and ability to make plays with his legs has made him a dynamic leader for Alabama’s offense. Oklahoma, which forced four fumbles in their loss to Missouri, must replicate that level of disruption to have any hope of slowing Milroe and the Tide.
With players like Williams capable of breaking big plays both on the ground and through the air, Alabama’s rushing attack is a key weapon. Oklahoma’s front seven will need to tighten up after struggling against physical rushing offenses. If the Sooners fail to tackle effectively in open space, Alabama’s rushing attack could break the game wide open.
Oklahoma’s offensive struggles, particularly their inability to protect the ball, could be disastrous against an opportunistic Alabama defense.
With four lost fumbles in their last game, the Sooners have shown a troubling tendency to gift their opponents scoring chances. Alabama’s defense, bolstered by its ability to capitalize on mistakes, will likely focus on shutting down Oklahoma’s ground game and forcing Arnold to make difficult throws.
Turnovers and field position will be crucial in this matchup. Alabama’s depth gives them a distinct advantage in late-game situations, while Oklahoma must eliminate their error-prone tendencies to stay competitive. A repeat of their turnover-filled performance against Missouri would all but guarantee a Crimson Tide victory.
NCAAF Pick
Alabama’s balanced offensive attack and ability to exploit opponents’ mistakes make them the clear favorite in this matchup. While Oklahoma’s defense has shown moments of potential, their offensive inconsistencies and turnover problems are unlikely to hold up against the Tide’s disciplined and explosive game plan. I like the Under here.
NCAAF Pick: Under 47.5 (-110) at Bet365
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