Oklahoma’s football team achieved a significant 24-3 upset victory over Alabama on Saturday, improving their record to 6-5 overall and 2-5 in SEC play. Alabama, ranked No. 7 nationally in scoring offense, failed to score a touchdown for the first time since 2011, showcasing the strength of Oklahoma’s defense. This victory highlighted how crucial effective ball control and a solid defense are for the Sooners.
Oklahoma’s defense demonstrated that the offense doesn’t need to produce high-scoring games to win. Alabama struggled with field position throughout the game, starting nine of its ten drives from its 25-yard line or deeper. The Crimson Tide’s best starting field position was its own 44-yard line. Oklahoma also dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 34 minutes and 11 seconds compared to Alabama’s 25 minutes and 49 seconds.
This success was rooted in three key areas where Oklahoma had struggled in previous games: field position, turnovers, and time of possession. By addressing these weaknesses, the Sooners flipped the script on what had been a challenging season. Their offense operated efficiently, with minimal passing. The Sooners attempted only 11 passes, completing nine for 68 yards, while their rushing attack dominated, amassing 257 yards on 5.1 yards per carry. The offensive line was instrumental in this success, creating opportunities for the running game to flourish.
Given their challenges earlier in the season, Oklahoma entered 2024 expecting to rely heavily on its passing game, but injuries to key receivers forced a shift in strategy. If the offensive line can maintain the level of performance shown against Alabama, Oklahoma’s offense could pose a significant threat next season. This change in approach might serve as a foundation for their future, particularly with the potential return of a healthier receiving corps, a new offensive coordinator, and the continued development of quarterback Jackson Arnold or another candidate.
The victory also had broader implications for Oklahoma football. Losing their last two games could have sparked serious questions about the program’s trajectory and led to potential staff changes. Instead, the win instilled hope that head coach Brent Venables may be the right leader for the team and that the Sooners can thrive in the SEC.
Recruiting could also benefit from this performance. The win showcased Oklahoma’s ability to compete with top-tier SEC teams, even while dealing with numerous injuries. While some recruits, such as highly-touted offensive line prospect Michael Fasusi, were absent from the game, the dominant performance by the Sooners’ offensive line could send a strong message about the team’s potential.
Despite this significant win, it is clear that Brent Venables must continue to prove himself next season. This cannot be the pinnacle of his tenure. Instead, it should mark the beginning of Oklahoma’s resurgence as a powerhouse college football program.