How to Watch Alabama vs. Oklahoma: TV Channel and Streaming Options for the College Football Playoff First Round

nguyenmusic3 · December 11, 2025

How to Watch Alabama vs. Oklahoma: TV Channel and Streaming Options for the College Football Playoff First Round


NORMAN, Okla. — College football fans expecting a Saturday showdown will need to adjust their calendars slightly. The highly anticipated College Football Playoff (CFP) First Round rematch between the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide and the No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners is officially set for Friday, December 19, 2025, kicking off a weekend of high-stakes postseason action.

While many viewers may have initially looked to December 20 for this heavyweight bout, the game has been slotted for a primetime Friday night feature, giving these two historic programs the national spotlight all to themselves before the Saturday slate begins.

Here is everything you need to know to watch the game, including TV channels, confirmed streaming options, and a preview of what to expect when the Tide rolls into Norman.

Game Information

  • Matchup: No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide (10-3) at No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners (10-2)

  • Date: Friday, December 19, 2025

  • Kickoff Time: 8:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. CT)

  • Location: Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Oklahoma

  • Weather Forecast: A surprisingly mild night for December in Oklahoma, with clear skies, temperatures hovering around 64°F (18°C) at kickoff, and a light south wind at 12 mph.

How to Watch on TV

The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC and simulcast on ESPN. This dual-network broadcast ensures maximum availability for fans across the country.

  • ABC: Available on all major cable and satellite providers, as well as over-the-air via digital antenna in local markets.

  • ESPN: Available on standard cable and satellite packages (DirectTV, Dish, Xfinity, Spectrum, etc.).

Streaming Options

For cord-cutters, there are multiple reliable ways to stream the game live. Since the broadcast is on ABC and ESPN, any service carrying these networks will provide access.

  • ESPN+ / ESPN App: Viewers with a valid TV provider login can stream the game directly through the ESPN app on smart TVs, tablets, and mobile devices.

  • Fubo: Known for its sports-centric focus, Fubo carries both ABC and ESPN. It typically offers a free trial for new users, making it a solid option for watching the playoffs.

  • YouTube TV: Offers local ABC affiliates and ESPN as part of its base package, with unlimited cloud DVR if you need to record the game.

  • Hulu + Live TV: Includes access to ESPN and local ABC channels, along with the Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle.

  • Sling TV: The “Sling Orange” package includes ESPN, though ABC availability varies by local market (often requiring “Sling Blue” or an antenna).

Game Preview: The Rematch

This First Round matchup is one of the most intriguing of the entire playoff bracket because it is a fresh rematch. Just over a month ago, on November 15, Oklahoma stunned Alabama 23-21, a victory that was pivotal in securing the Sooners’ home-field advantage for this playoff game.

In that first meeting, the Sooners’ defense forced key turnovers that stalled Alabama’s high-powered offense. Now, head coach Kalen DeBoer and the Crimson Tide return to Norman seeking revenge and a ticket to the quarterfinals against the No. 1 seed Indiana Hoosiers.

Quarterback Spotlight
The game features a fascinating clash of quarterback styles.

  • Alabama: Junior quarterback Ty Simpson has had a Heisman-caliber season, throwing for over 3,200 yards and 26 touchdowns. Despite a tough outing in the SEC Championship loss to Georgia, Simpson’s arm talent gives Alabama the ability to strike quickly. The mild weather forecast is a significant boost for Simpson, who won’t have to battle the bitter cold or wind often found in the Midwest in December.

  • Oklahoma: On the other side is John Mateer, the dual-threat transfer from Washington State who has electrified the Sooners’ offense. While his passing numbers (2,578 yards, 12 TDs) are more modest than Simpson’s, his legs are the X-factor. Mateer has rushed for over 400 yards and 7 touchdowns this season, and his ability to extend plays was a nightmare for Alabama’s linebackers in their last meeting.

Key Injuries and Updates

Both teams are limping slightly into the postseason, which could decide the game’s outcome.

Alabama is monitoring the status of starting running back Jam Miller, who is dealing with a lower leg injury and is considered questionable. His absence would put more pressure on Simpson and the passing game. However, there is optimism that tight end Josh Cuevas (foot) will return after missing the SEC Championship, providing a crucial safety valve for the offense.

Oklahoma remains relatively healthy on offense but will need its defensive front to replicate their November performance without being worn down by Alabama’s tempo.

The Stakes

The winner of this Friday night clash advances to the College Football Playoff Quarterfinals to face the top-seeded Indiana Hoosiers at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. For Oklahoma, a win would validate their inaugural SEC season success. For Alabama, it’s a chance to prove that their 10-3 record and SEC Championship stumble were just speed bumps on the road to a national title.

With the lights of Friday night shining on Norman, expect a playoff atmosphere that rivals any in college football history. Make sure you have your streaming service logged in or your DVR set for 8:00 p.m. ET this Friday, December 19.

Dung Bui