Oklahoma-Alabama: First college playoff game in Norman
They said the Michigan game was the biggest of the season. Then it was the Tennessee game. Then it was at Alabama. Then it was LSU. And now the first round of the playoffs against Alabama tonight is the so called biggest in Sooner history.
Well, I have attended more than 250 Oklahoma football games in person. Several national championship games. One won. Several lost. I’ve attended prior college playoff games in Pasadena and Atlanta against some of the best teams ever to play college football.
I was here in Norman when Oklahoma beat Nebraska in 2000. No, I had nothing to do with tearing the goal post down, although I have no comment about whether I was on the field after the game. I’ve seen huge games in the Cotton Bowl in October. Big games in Lincoln. I was there for the heartbreak ending against Boise State out in Glendale.
So, while I know having a playoff game for the first time in Norman is a big deal, I’m going to hold back on making it bigger than several others, including the win over Nebraska in 2000. That was a magical year. This could end up that way — but if it does, then the game tonight will just be one step toward that magical conclusion.
That said — it should be loud tonight at that stadium located about a mile from my house. “Electric” may be the right adjective.
As for the game, I know it is very hard to beat a good football team twice in the same year. Ask Nebraska about 1978. I was there in Lincoln when Oklahoma lost. I was there in the Orange Bowl in Miami a few weeks later when the Sooners got revenge (the Husker’s hated having a rematch).
That makes me feel uncomfortable about this game against Alabama. That and the Sooners’ weak offense. But, as they say, defense wins championships. This game may be the test of that saying.
I’m not betting against this bunch of Sooners. They find ways to win. That is a testament to their coach, Brent Venables.
But, regardless whether OU wins or loses, Oklahoma has exceeded all expectations for this year. Thanks go to the team and coaches. It has been a tremendous season to watch.
My prediction: Oklahoma 16, Alabama 14. (Yes, that includes three Sandell field goals).
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