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Despite rumors that the University of Michigan is looking to hire Alabama coach Karen DeBoer as Sherone Moore’s replacement, DeBoer has firmly stated he has “no interest” in other roles and plans to continue coaching the Crimson Tide next season. This declaration should put an end to the speculation about his departure from Tuscaloosa—though, historically, coaches who publicly deny interest often end up switching jobs anyway.
In this context, the Alabama Crimson Tide (10-3) are set to face the Oklahoma Sooners (10-2) in the first round of the College Football Playoff on Friday night in Norman, Oklahoma. The winner will move on to the Rose Bowl to play the top-seeded Indiana Hoosiers in the quarterfinals, while the loser’s season concludes.
This matchup is a rematch of their November 15 game in Tuscaloosa, where the Sooners narrowly defeated Alabama 23-21. Despite Alabama outgaining Oklahoma 406 yards to 212 and having a 95% chance to win, three turnovers contributed to their loss as Oklahoma scored 17 points off mistakes. Oklahoma enters the game as a slight favorite, ahead of Alabama by 1.5 points.
While the Sooners vs. Crimson Tide game is the main highlight of Friday, sports fans also have five NBA games and various college basketball matchups to enjoy. Below is a guide on key games and betting recommendations for Friday, December 19th. (Times are Eastern.)
College Football Game to Watch:
– No. 9 Alabama at No. 8 Oklahoma
– Time: 8 PM
– Location: Norman, Oklahoma
– TV: ABC/ESPN
– Stream: Fubo (free trial)
– Betting Tip: Alabama +1.5 (both SportsLine models and expert Bruce Marshall agree)
In their recent loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship, Alabama’s offense struggled badly, managing negative rushing yards and only 209 total yards in a 28-7 defeat. However, running back Jam Miller, who missed that game, is expected back against Oklahoma. Oklahoma’s offense ranks 88th nationally and has faced challenges, especially after QB Jon Mattia’s injury in September. Defensive strength helped Oklahoma in the first game with a 3-0 turnover advantage. SportsLine simulations give Alabama a 51% chance to cover the spread on +1.5 against Oklahoma.
NBA Games to Watch:
– 76ers vs. Knicks
– Time: 7 PM
– Location: New York City
– TV: Prime Video
– Stream: Fubo (free trial)
– Betting Tip: Knicks -3.5 (Models favor Knicks; Expert prefers 76ers +5)
The Knicks continue their hot streak after winning the NBA Cup and a recent nail-biter over the Pacers. Despite a busy schedule, models predict New York has a 67% chance to cover the spread. Expect a tough battle as the Knicks seek their eighth straight win.
– Timberwolves vs. Thunder
– Time: 9:30 PM
– Location: Minneapolis
– TV: Prime Video
– Stream: Fubo (free trial)
– Betting Tip: Thunder -7.5 (Models favor Oklahoma City)
The Thunder bounced back from an NBA Cup semifinal loss, improving their defense significantly. Despite playing the second night of back-to-back games, Oklahoma City holds a slight edge and a 52% chance to cover the spread.
College Basketball to Watch:
– Villanova vs. Wisconsin
– Time: 8 PM
– Location: Milwaukee
– TV: Fox
– Stream: Fubo (free trial)
– Betting Tip: Villanova +3.5
Wisconsin aims to recover from a tough defensive performance in a heavy loss to Nebraska. Villanova ranks higher offensively and is favored to cover the spread with a 68% chance according to models.
Looking Ahead in College Football:
– Miami vs. Texas A&M (Saturday Noon)
– Location: College Station, Texas
– TV: ABC/ESPN
– Stream: Fubo (free trial)
– Betting Tip: Texas A&M -3.5 (Models favor Aggies; Expert favors Miami +3.5)
Texas A&M hosts Miami with a quarterfinal spot in the CFP and a potential Cotton Bowl showdown on the line. Turnovers have plagued both teams’ quarterbacks this season. Despite expert optimism about Miami’s talent under coach Mario Cristobal, models give the Aggies a 59% chance to cover the spread.
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Fan Take: This news is crucial for basketball fans because it highlights how college football’s playoff thrilling matchups coincide with major NBA and college basketball games, offering a packed sports day. The close games and strategic matchups could shift momentum for teams and offer exciting narratives for both college football and basketball fans.
