Oklahoma has bolstered its College Football Playoff aspirations with a significant victory over previously fourth-ranked Alabama, marking its second notable road win of the season. This triumph has led to significant shifts in the Week 13 Coaches Poll, pushing the Sooners up two spots to No. 8. They now find themselves among the projected playoff contenders, vying for one of four at-large spots from the SEC, while Alabama’s defeat saw them drop to No. 10.
In an unusual turn, Oklahoma achieved this win despite being significantly outgained in total yardage, managing only 212 yards—its lowest in a win since 2021. Nevertheless, the Sooners demonstrated resilience by overcoming a ranked opponent on the road for a second consecutive week, previously knocking Tennessee out of the playoff conversation.
Oklahoma’s head coach, Brent Venables, expressed a positive view of the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of turnovers in the competitive landscape of college football. “Who’s it not pretty for? What does that mean? Some people it’s pretty for. I happen to like it,” he stated. “But again, it’s a reflection, we see it in our league. I don’t know what all happened today throughout the league, but we’re playing really good people. They’re going to make plays, we’re going to make plays. We’re going to get got, they’re going to get got. Turnovers are going to be a part of it.”
The Sooners’ resilience and ability to capitalize on turnovers serve as a testament to their determination and potential as they move forward in the season. With their playoff hopes still alive, Oklahoma fans have every reason to remain optimistic as the team continues to rise in the rankings.