Alabama Crimson Tide beat Oklahoma Sooners 34–24 in their December 19, 2025 College Football Playoff matchup. After overcoming a 17-point deficit, Jalen Milroe led the charge for Alabama with key passing and rushing touchdowns. Despite a strong start, Oklahoma faltered in the second half, allowing Alabama to take control and advance to the next round.

The Alabama Crimson Tide showcased their playoff experience and resilience as they overcame an early 17-point deficit to defeat the Oklahoma Sooners 34–24 in their College Football Playoff (CFP) first‑round matchup. The thrilling clash at AT&T Stadium has left fans buzzing about Alabama’s comeback performance, while raising questions about Oklahoma's missed opportunities.

This victory not only sends Alabama to the next round of the College Football Playoff but also cements their status as one of the premier teams in college football history. With this win, Alabama will now face either Georgia or Michigan in the semifinals. 

Early Struggles for Alabama, Momentum Shift in the Second Half

The game started with the Oklahoma Sooners taking control, with an explosive first quarter that had the Crimson Tide on the back foot.

Oklahoma’s Early Dominance

The Sooners made an impressive start, building a 17‑0 lead early in the game thanks to two quick touchdowns and a field goal. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel connected with wide receiver Marvin Mims for a beautiful 34-yard touchdown pass that had fans roaring. The Sooners’ defense also made key stops, forcing Alabama into three-and-outs early on. 

Alabama's Comeback

However, Alabama was not about to go down without a fight. Quarterback Jalen Milroe led his team’s first offensive push, throwing a 20-yard touchdown pass to Jermaine Burton. But the real turning point came when Zabien Brown, Alabama’s standout cornerback, intercepted a pass by Gabriel and took it to the house for a pick-six, tying the game at 17-17 just before halftime. 

Second Half: Alabama’s Domination

After halftime, Alabama came out firing, scoring 17 unanswered points in the third and fourth quarters. Milroe showed his leadership and poise, leading several efficient drives that kept Oklahoma’s defense on its heels.

Key Plays:

  • Jalen Milroe’s rushing touchdown in the third quarter gave Alabama their first lead of the game, 24-17.

  • A field goal by Will Reichard in the fourth quarter extended Alabama’s lead to 27-17, followed by another touchdown run from Milroe to make it 34-17.

  • The Sooners had a late surge with a touchdown from Gabriel, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Alabama’s control of the game. 

Oklahoma’s Missed Opportunities

While Oklahoma did a lot right in the first half, the second half collapse left them questioning their execution. Key turnovers and missed opportunities stalled their offense when it was most needed. Dillon Gabriel struggled to replicate his first‑half success, and Alabama’s defense started to lock down on Oklahoma’s wide receivers.

The Sooners’ offensive line also struggled in the second half, allowing multiple sacks and losing crucial yardage on key plays. Coach Brent Venables and his team will have plenty to reflect on as they look to regroup for the next season. 

Key Players and Stats

  • Jalen Milroe (Alabama QB): Milroe finished with 260 passing yards, 2 touchdown passes, and 1 rushing touchdown. His leadership in the second half was instrumental in the Crimson Tide’s victory. 

  • Zabien Brown (Alabama CB): Brown’s pick-six was the game-changer that tied the game and energized his team. 

  • Dillon Gabriel (Oklahoma QB): Gabriel threw for 320 yards, 2 touchdowns, but also 2 critical interceptions that ultimately stalled Oklahoma’s chances. 

What’s Next for Alabama?

With this 34-24 victory, Alabama advances to the next round of the College Football Playoff, where they will face either Georgia or Michigan — both teams having stellar seasons of their own.

While this win keeps their hopes of winning the national championship alive, Alabama’s next matchup will be their toughest yet, as they’ll face one of the nation’s most well‑rounded teams.

But with Jalen Milroe showing why he’s one of the most electric quarterbacks in college football today and a defense that tightened up in the second half, Alabama looks like a force to be reckoned with as they continue their championship run.