Alabama Stuns Oklahoma, Advances to Rose Bowl Showdown with Indiana

UPDATE: In an electrifying comeback, the Alabama Crimson Tide triumphed over the Oklahoma Sooners with a score of 34-24 on Friday night, securing their place in the Rose Bowl against top-seeded Indiana on January 1, 2024. This thrilling victory marks Alabama’s first playoff appearance under Coach Kalen DeBoer.

Alabama, seeded No. 9, rallied from a staggering 17-point deficit, showcasing resilience and determination. Freshman quarterback Ty Simpson passed for 232 yards and two touchdowns, while newcomer Lotzeir Brooks made headlines by scoring two touchdowns—his first of the season—with five catches totaling 79 yards.

Oklahoma, entering the game as the No. 8 seed, initially dominated, with quarterback John Mateer throwing for 307 yards and two touchdowns. However, a critical interception returned for a touchdown by Alabama’s Zabien Brown late in the second quarter shifted momentum and tied the game at 17-17.

Oklahoma’s strong start included a 51-yard field goal by Lou Groza Award winner Tate Sandell, establishing a 10-0 lead in the first quarter. The Sooners extended their advantage to 17-0 when Mateer connected with Isaiah Sategna for a 6-yard touchdown.

But Alabama’s response was swift. After struggling early, they found their rhythm with Simpson’s 10-yard touchdown pass to Brooks, igniting a scoring spree that saw Alabama net 27 consecutive points. Simpson’s second touchdown pass to Brooks gave the Tide their first lead, followed by a 40-yard field goal by Conor Talty.

As the game neared its end, Oklahoma attempted to fight back. Burks caught a 37-yard touchdown pass from Mateer in the fourth quarter, narrowing Alabama’s lead to 27-24. However, Sandell’s missed field goals in the final moments sealed the Sooners’ fate.

“Alabama played mistake-free football and kept their focus,” said Coach DeBoer. “After trailing, they showcased incredible resilience to come back and win.”

With this victory, Alabama (11-3) prepares to face unbeaten Indiana and Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The upcoming quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl promises to be a thrilling encounter, as Alabama aims to continue their momentum from this spectacular win.

Fans can expect further updates as the Crimson Tide gear up for this monumental clash against Indiana. Stay tuned for more breaking news!