Overview
- Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb acknowledged Oklahoma’s skill at picking up signals but said it did not materially affect Alabama’s prior performance.
- Alabama surrendered four sacks and lost 23-21 in the Nov. 15 meeting despite a 406-212 yardage edge, with two fumbles, an interception and a missed field goal proving costly.
- Grubb identified communication across the offensive line as the key to eliminating protection breakdowns and negative plays in the rematch.
- Alabama reports improved availability up front with center Parker Brailsford recovering, left guard Kam Dewberry available and left tackle Kadyn Proctor optimistic about cohesion.
- The rematch kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. CT in Norman on ABC and ESPN, with the winner advancing to face No. 1 Indiana in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal on Jan. 1.