While No. 4 Alabama avoided calling their contest with No. 11 Oklahoma a revenge game, the Crimson Tide once again found themselves on the losing side Saturday.
After defeating Alabama 24-3 in Norman the previous year, the Sooners traveled to Tuscaloosa this weekend aiming to improve their College Football Playoff hopes. Oklahoma succeeded, upsetting Alabama 23-21.
Even a loud crowd at Bryant-Denny Stadium couldn’t stop Oklahoma’s defense from making big plays. The Sooners’ defense scored 17 points off three turnovers on their way to the victory.
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The victory enhances Oklahoma’s playoff chances but also creates uncertainty for the Tide’s journey to Atlanta for the Southeastern Conference championship game. It likely won’t be a critical blow for Alabama, but the Tide must now win in two weeks against rival Auburn in the Iron Bowl.
Sooners defensive back Eli Bowen returned an interception 87 yards for a touchdown, while linebacker Kip Lewis recorded two sacks. OU ended Alabama’s 17-game home winning streak and gave second-year coach Kalen DeBoer his first loss in Tuscaloosa.
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The Sooners were on the bubble in last week’s CFP rankings, but Saturday’s win could secure their playoff spot if they handle their home games against Missouri and LSU.
Alabama had a late opportunity, but Ty Simpson’s fourth-down pass to Ryan Williams was incomplete.
Oklahoma then ran out the clock, sparking a lively celebration among their visiting fans. OU limited Alabama to 57 yards over their final four drives, which ultimately made the difference.
John Mateer passed for 138 yards and rushed for a touchdown to lead Oklahoma’s offense. Simpson threw for 326 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
Despite dominating in nearly every category, Alabama made several costly mistakes. Besides the turnovers, Alabama missed a 36-yard field goal and allowed a 46-yard punt return that led to Oklahoma’s first score.
The Crimson Tide will host Eastern Illinois next week.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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