Alabama’s Playoff Hopes Dashed as Oklahoma Stuns the Crimson Tide
In a shocking upset, the unranked Oklahoma Sooners defeated the No. 7 Alabama Crimson Tide 24-3 on Saturday night. The loss is likely to eliminate Alabama from playoff contention, with only a rivalry matchup against Auburn left on their schedule.
The Sooners’ dominant defense was the key to their victory, with quarterback Jalen Milroe struggling to make plays all night. Milroe, who had been a dynamic prospect at times this season, was intercepted three times and managed only 164 yards passing with no touchdowns. His struggles reading the field and making decisions were evident, and he was unable to make plays on the ground, rushing for only seven yards on 15 attempts.
The loss is a significant blow to Alabama’s playoff hopes, and it also raises questions about Milroe’s stock in the 2025 NFL Draft. While he has shown flashes of brilliance as a runner, his consistency as a passer has been an issue, and Saturday night’s performance did little to alleviate those concerns.
The Sooners’ defense, led by coach Brent Venables, was dominant for all four quarters, shutting down Alabama’s offense and making life miserable for Milroe. The win was a statement victory for Oklahoma, and it marked a significant upset in the college football world.
As the college football season enters its final stretch, the playoff picture is becoming increasingly clear. Alabama’s loss to Oklahoma is likely to eliminate them from contention, while other teams, such as Georgia and Ohio State, continue to make their cases for a spot in the playoffs.
For Milroe and the Crimson Tide, the loss is a disappointing end to a season that had begun with such promise. While there is still a rivalry matchup against Auburn left to play, the loss to Oklahoma is likely to be the defining moment of Alabama’s season.