R Mason Thomas ‘unlikely to play’ for Oklahoma vs. No. 4 Alabama
By Ethan Stone
Published:
R Mason Thomas was downgraded to doubtful on Friday night’s Oklahoma-Alabama injury report, and ESPN’s Pete Thamel reiterated that designation early Saturday morning. The standout Oklahoma defensive lineman is ‘unlikely to play’ for the Sooners against Alabama in Week 12.
One of the best defensive linemen in the country, Thomas’ presence will be sorely missed against the Crimson Tide. While he maintains that Thomas is unlikely to play, Thamel noted on Saturday that Oklahoma will make a final decision at kickoff.
Thomas is dealing with a quad injury that he suffered against Tennessee during his monster fumble return touchdown. In case you haven’t seen it, we’ll remedy that now:
This play encapsulates Thomas perfectly. A relentless pass rusher with strength and the ability to single-handedly change a game. At the time of this fumble return, Tennessee was driving and looking to take an early 14-0 lead at home. This play came when Oklahoma absolutely needed it and completely flipped the game on its head.
With that said, Oklahoma is going to need someone to step up if Thomas doesn’t play as expected. The Sooners cannot afford another loss on the season, but they’ll have to make Ty Simpson uncomfortable in the pocket if they’re going to have any chance of beating Alabama in Tuscaloosa.
Kickoff for Oklahoma at Alabama is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
