Oklahoma and Alabama will meet Friday for third time in 13 months in the most significant game of their budding rivalry. Last year, underdog Oklahoma stunned the Crimson Tide 24-3 and cost the Crimson Tide a spot in the College Football Playoff.

ESPN's Greg McElroy predicts the winner of the Alabama vs. Oklahoma College Football Playoff opening round game. The analysis examines the rematch in Norman, focusing on Ty Simpson, turnover regression,

Oklahoma's Brent Venables and Alabama's Kalen DeBoer have experienced the ups and downs of leading major college football programs.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— Alabama's offense will face an Oklahoma defense this Friday in the opening round of the College Football Playoff that leads the nation in sacks (41) and tackles for loss (115.) Coached by Brent Venables, the Sooner defense is known for making things incredibly difficult for opposing offense both pre and post snap.

Kalen DeBoer is all in on Alabama football. The Crimson Tide coach said as much. DeBoer reaffirmed that he and his family "are very happy in Tuscaloosa." He's focused on "an incredible opportunity" in front of Alabama,