Oklahoma moves into top 10 of ESPN’s power rankings after win at Alabama
By Luke Greco
Published:
After a massive win over Alabama this past Saturday, Oklahoma has climbed into the top 10 of ESPN’s updated power rankings.
The Sooners knocked off the Crimson Tide this weekend by a score of 23-21. While Alabama outgained Oklahoma in both passing yards and rushing yards, it was the turnovers that were key to an Oklahoma win. Alabama lost 2 fumbles, and quarterback Ty Simpson threw 1 interception, while Oklahoma played clean football and did not turn the ball over.
This performance was enough for the Sooners to climb 4 spots and land at No. 8 in ESPN’s updated power rankings. ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg had this to say about the Oklahoma Sooners:
Who expected Oklahoma’s biggest win in years to come in a game in which it had its lowest yardage total (212) in years? The Sooners shined on special teams and defense against Alabama and avoided the big mistakes on offense that normally doom teams on the road. The key now is to get John Mateer and the offense on a similar trajectory for home games against Missouri and LSU that could propel OU into the CFP. Mateer has only two touchdown passes in his past five starts and has eclipsed 200 passing yards only once in the past four games. Although Mateer had a magical 20-yard touchdown run at Alabama, Oklahoma averaged just 2.6 yards per carry. A stronger offensive performance is needed to finish off a 10-2 regular season.
Rittenberg is right about Oklahoma’s offense needing to click down the stretch. If the Sooners want any chance at a College Football Playoff berth, winning out against LSU and Missouri is a must.
