Warning: I haven't had a good read on Oklahoma this season. But I feel strongly that the Alabama defense is coming off its best game of the year, giving up just three field goals to LSU. The Tide face a Sooners offense that ranks 64th in the country in points per game (28.9) and 77th in yards per game (373.7). Meanwhile, according to reports, the Oklahoma defense is not likely to have its best player, R Mason Thomas. That doesn't bode well against the Tide passing game and quarterback Ty Simpson, who has thrown 21 touchdowns against only one interception this year.

Two stout defenses collide. One is missing is headliner. Oklahoma DE R Mason Thomas, a sackmeister and fumble instigator, appears out. Also, CB Gentry Williams is doubtful. Not that rising Alabama QB Ty Simpson needs much help, but his task grows easier against the SEC's top-rated D. If the Sooners' defense has a weakness, it's yielding big pass gains. Simpson can strike, and scattered chunk plays can make the difference in a projected slugfest.

Alabama's offense is one-handed and has struggled to score points in the SEC all season. Oklahoma's offense has also been horrible in SEC play, as we don't hear much about John Mateer's Heisman campaign anymore. The defenses will dictate this game.