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25 Facts About Alabama Vs. Oklahoma

Kevina Otten

Written by Kevina Otten

Published: 29 Dec 2025

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Source: Foxsports.com

Ever wondered how Alabama and Oklahoma stack up against each other? These two states, rich in history and culture, have unique characteristics that set them apart. From their geographical features to their contributions in sports, music, and cuisine, there's a lot to learn. Alabama, known as the "Heart of Dixie," boasts a deep-rooted history in the Civil Rights Movement and is famous for its Southern hospitality. Oklahoma, the "Sooner State," offers a blend of Native American heritage and cowboy culture. Whether you're curious about their economies, famous landmarks, or quirky state symbols, this comparison will give you a fresh perspective on what makes Alabama and Oklahoma truly special. Buckle up for a fun ride through 25 intriguing facts!

Table of Contents
01Alabama vs. Oklahoma: A Historic Rivalry
02Legendary Coaches
03Memorable Games
04Fan Traditions
05NFL Success
06Final Thoughts on Alabama vs. Oklahoma

Alabama vs. Oklahoma: A Historic Rivalry

The clash between Alabama and Oklahoma is one of the most exciting matchups in college football. Both teams boast rich histories, passionate fan bases, and numerous accolades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two powerhouses.

  1. Alabama and Oklahoma have faced each other six times in college football history, with Oklahoma leading the series 3-2-1.

  2. The first meeting between the two teams occurred in the 1963 Orange Bowl, where Alabama triumphed with a 17-0 victory.

  3. Alabama's football program began in 1892, while Oklahoma's started in 1895, making them two of the oldest programs in college football.

  4. Alabama has claimed 18 national championships, while Oklahoma has secured 7 national titles.

  5. The Crimson Tide has produced two Heisman Trophy winners: Mark Ingram (2009) and Derrick Henry (2015).

  6. Oklahoma boasts seven Heisman Trophy winners, including notable names like Billy Vessels (1952), Steve Owens (1969), and Kyler Murray (2018).

Legendary Coaches

Both Alabama and Oklahoma have been led by some of the most iconic coaches in college football history. These coaches have left an indelible mark on their respective programs.

  1. Paul "Bear" Bryant is perhaps the most famous coach in Alabama history, leading the team to six national championships during his tenure from 1958 to 1982.

  2. Nick Saban, the current head coach of Alabama, has won six national championships with the Crimson Tide since taking over in 2007.

  3. Oklahoma's Bud Wilkinson led the Sooners to three national championships and an impressive 47-game winning streak from 1953 to 1957.

  4. Barry Switzer, another legendary Oklahoma coach, guided the Sooners to three national titles during his time from 1973 to 1988.

  5. Bob Stoops, who coached Oklahoma from 1999 to 2016, won a national championship in 2000 and is the winningest coach in Sooners history.

Memorable Games

The Alabama vs. Oklahoma rivalry has produced some unforgettable games that have left fans on the edge of their seats. Here are a few highlights.

  1. In the 1970 Bluebonnet Bowl, Oklahoma defeated Alabama 24-24, resulting in the only tie in their series history.

  2. The 2002 regular-season matchup saw Oklahoma edge out Alabama with a 37-27 victory in Norman, Oklahoma.

  3. Alabama got its revenge in the 2003 regular-season game, winning 20-13 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

  4. The 2014 Sugar Bowl was a thrilling contest where Oklahoma upset Alabama 45-31, led by quarterback Trevor Knight's stellar performance.

  5. The most recent meeting in the 2018 Orange Bowl saw Alabama defeat Oklahoma 45-34, securing a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Fan Traditions

Both Alabama and Oklahoma have unique fan traditions that add to the excitement and atmosphere of their games.

  1. Alabama fans are known for their "Roll Tide" chant, which has become synonymous with the Crimson Tide.

  2. Oklahoma fans proudly sing "Boomer Sooner," the school's fight song, at every game.

  3. The "Million Dollar Band" is Alabama's renowned marching band, performing at all home games and many away games.

  4. Oklahoma's "Pride of Oklahoma" marching band is equally famous, known for its high-energy performances and intricate formations.

NFL Success

Many players from Alabama and Oklahoma have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL, showcasing the talent and development provided by these programs.

  1. Alabama has produced numerous NFL stars, including Julio Jones, Derrick Henry, and Tua Tagovailoa.

  2. Oklahoma has also sent many players to the NFL, such as Adrian Peterson, Baker Mayfield, and CeeDee Lamb.

  3. Both schools have had multiple players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, highlighting their ability to develop top-tier talent.

  4. Alabama holds the record for the most first-round picks in a single NFL Draft, with six players selected in 2021.

  5. Oklahoma's 2018 NFL Draft saw three Sooners selected in the first round, including Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield as the number one overall pick.

Final Thoughts on Alabama vs. Oklahoma

Alabama and Oklahoma both have rich histories and unique cultures. Alabama, known for its deep roots in the Civil Rights Movement, offers a blend of Southern charm and historical significance. Oklahoma, with its Native American heritage and cowboy culture, provides a different but equally fascinating experience.

Both states boast impressive college football teams, with Alabama's Crimson Tide and Oklahoma's Sooners often dominating the field. The landscapes are diverse too—Alabama's lush forests and Gulf Coast beaches contrast with Oklahoma's vast plains and rolling hills.

Whether you're a history buff, sports fan, or nature lover, both states have something special to offer. So, next time you're planning a trip or just curious about different parts of the U.S., consider exploring the unique attributes of Alabama and Oklahoma. You'll find there's much more to these states than meets the eye.

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