Oklahoma’s keys to victory against Alabama

During the sweltering dog days of summer, the “Bama Game” was the one I eagerly marked on my calendar. At that time, the expectation was that the winner could potentially secure a spot in the SEC Championship game, while also solidifying their chances for the twelve-team football playoff. Unfortunately, that scenario now applies only to the visiting team from Tuscaloosa this Saturday night.

Danny Stutsman had this contest circled even before I, as a major factor as to “why” he opted to come back and return for his senior season despite NFL mock drafts projecting him as a Day 2 selection.

For Danny, it’s not only his last home game as a senior, a chance to surpass 100 tackles on the season, but it’s also the chance to go toe to toe with one of the most iconic programs in the history of college football.

Today we examine three keys to pulling off a historic upset which currently has the Sooners listed as heavy underdogs at 13.5 points.

1). Although Jalen Milroe has impressed in recent series and situations, the key to slowing down the Tide attack is containing receiver Ryan Williams. The 17 year old phenomenon from Mobile has already hauled in 8 touchdown receptions this season. OU’s secondary must keep him in check.

2). Win the turnover battle. This one sounds overly obvious but it also cuts both ways. Jackson Arnold has to validate “why” he’s the Sooner signal caller of the future and ball integrity is as crucial as accuracy on this night. Arnold has lost 6 fumbles on the season. On the other side of the ball, the defense has to create opportunities. We’ve seen Robert Spears-Jennings in four different games force fumbles, just as we witnessed Billy Bowman scoop up a 43 yard fumble return and reach the end zone. For Bowman it’s also the home finale of a storied career and don’t be surprised if he doesn’t make big plays on defense along with special teams on this night.

3). Take some risks. What do you have to lose? The Sooners have actually converted 13 attempts this season on 4th down, including 3 in their last effort vs. Missouri.

Although Brent Venables has recently received the dreaded “vote of confidence” from the board of regents, nothing would go further in cementing his future on the OU sidelines for the remainder of this decade than an upset victory in Norman on Saturday Night. For Stutsman, Bowman, and the rest of the Senior Class it’s hard to imagine a more fitting send off.