Alabama Enters CFP Clash with Oklahoma Healthier, But Key Absences Loom Large
As Alabama gears up for its College Football Playoff opener against No. 8 Oklahoma, the Crimson Tide is heading into the matchup in noticeably better shape than it has been in recent weeks - but not without a few key names missing from the lineup.
The final availability report ahead of the CFP opener reveals that Alabama is getting a late boost on offense. Tight ends Josh Cuevas and Danny Lewis Jr., both previously listed as questionable, have been upgraded to game-time decisions. Head coach Kalen DeBoer noted earlier this week that both players are expected to be “available,” which is a promising sign for an offense that leans on tight end versatility in both the run and pass games.
Cuevas and Lewis have each carved out roles in Alabama’s offensive scheme this season, and having even one of them at full strength could be a factor in how DeBoer and his staff script the opening drives. With the Tide looking to establish rhythm early against a physical Oklahoma defense, every healthy option matters.
But while the offense might be trending in the right direction, Alabama’s defense will be without a significant piece up front. Starting defensive lineman LT Overton has been ruled out, a notable absence for a unit that thrives on applying pressure and controlling the line of scrimmage. Overton’s presence as a run-stopper and edge-setter will be missed against an Oklahoma offense that can get downhill in a hurry.
He’s not the only defender Alabama will be without. Defensive backs Kameron Howard and Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., along with linebacker Jah-Marien Latham, are also out for the contest. That’s a considerable hit to the Tide’s depth, especially against a Sooners offense that isn’t shy about spreading the field and testing secondaries.
On offense, Alabama will be down running back Kevin Riley, and defensive lineman Jeremiah Beaman is also unavailable. While neither is a starter, both have contributed rotational snaps this season - the kind of depth that becomes even more valuable in postseason play.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CT at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, with the game airing nationally on ABC. It’s a high-stakes showdown between two tradition-rich programs, and while Alabama is walking in a little healthier than it has in recent weeks, the Tide will still need to navigate some key personnel losses - particularly on defense.
Oklahoma’s Final Injury Report
The Sooners will be without several contributors of their own heading into this CFP clash. Defensive backs Gentry Williams, Kendel Dolby, and Jeremiah Newcombe are all out, which could leave Oklahoma a bit thin in the secondary - not ideal against an Alabama offense that’s shown flashes of explosiveness through the air.
On the offensive side, Oklahoma will miss linemen Troy Everett and Jake Maikkula, as well as wide receiver Manny Choice. That’s a hit to both protection and perimeter depth, especially if the game turns into a track meet.
Both teams are banged up to varying degrees, but with a trip to the national title game on the line, expect the energy to be high and the intensity even higher. The Tide may not be at full strength, but they’re close - and that could make all the difference in a game where every possession will matter.