When Alabama takes the field against Oklahoma on Friday, don’t be surprised if the tone of the game is set within the first two drives. Forget the clichés about it being a “four-quarter game” - this version of the Crimson Tide has shown us time and again that how they start tells us everything we need to know.
This season, Alabama hasn’t been a second-half team. Most of their offensive fireworks have come early, and when they don’t?
Things tend to spiral. That’s why the opening possessions in this matchup are critical.
It’s not about panicking if they don’t score on the first drive - but fans will feel that familiar pit in their stomach if the offense looks sluggish out of the gate.
Opening Statement: Time to Show the Plan
The first drive is where the chess match begins. It’s scripted, rehearsed, and carefully designed - this is where offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb and head coach Kalen DeBoer show what they’ve been cooking up during the bye week.
Are they dialing up tempo? Taking a deep shot early?
Or are they playing it conservative, trying to establish the ground game and feel out Oklahoma’s defense?
This is where Alabama has a chance to dictate the tempo, stretch the field, and put pressure on the Sooners early. A quick three-and-out, though, and the memories of the SEC Championship will come flooding back.
This team can’t afford to let Oklahoma’s defense get comfortable. They need to punch first.
Second Drive: Adjust and Attack
By the second drive, the script is out the window - and that’s where you really learn who’s ready to adapt. Alabama will have seen how Oklahoma is lining up, how they’re bringing pressure, and how their secondary is reacting. Now it’s about adjustments.
Expect to see quicker throws from Jalen Milroe, designed to neutralize Oklahoma’s pass rush and get the ball out fast. Motion before the snap could give Milroe better reads and help the receivers find soft spots in coverage.
If Oklahoma scores on its opening possession, Alabama’s second drive becomes even more important. They’ll need to respond - not just with points, but with poise and confidence.
This is where fans will be watching Milroe closely. Is he decisive in the pocket?
Are his feet calm? Is the offense playing with urgency and rhythm?
If so, it’s a sign that the extra week of preparation paid off. If not - if they’re checking to the sideline late, looking hesitant, or letting the play clock dwindle - then buckle up.
That’s a red flag.
Can Ugly Football Win This One? Not Likely.
Alabama has shown it can survive some sloppy football - the Auburn game was proof of that. But that only works against teams you can out-talent. Against a well-coached, physical defense like Oklahoma’s, ugly football turns into dangerous football real quick.
This isn’t just about scoreboard pressure - it’s about body language. Are the receivers crisp in their routes?
Is the offensive line firing off the ball? Does Milroe look like a quarterback in control?
These early indicators will tell us whether Alabama plans to take control or spend the night reacting.
The Verdict Comes Early
By the end of Alabama’s second offensive drive, fans will have a pretty good idea of what kind of night it’s going to be. If the Tide comes out fast, plays with confidence, and puts Oklahoma on its heels, this could be the offensive reset fans have been waiting for. But if they hesitate - if the tempo is off, the execution is shaky, or the offense looks like it’s still searching for answers - it could be another long night filled with “just one more adjustment” talk.
For Alabama, this isn’t just another game. It’s a moment to prove they’ve learned from the SEC title loss, that the bye week mattered, and that they’re ready to punch their ticket to the next stage. And it all starts - and maybe ends - with those first two drives.