Instant reactions to Alabama's CFP first round win vs. Oklahoma

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On Friday night, the Alabama Crimson Tide's season was on the line with a road game against Oklahoma in the CFP first round.

A battle of the No. 8 and No. 9 seeds, this was one-of-two rematches in the CFP first round from earlier this season, with Oklahoma having previously defeated Alabama in Tuscaloosa back on Nov. 15, 23-21.

As for the rematch, Oklahoma jumped out to a sizable early lead in this contest as well, but Alabama came roaring back to win in Norman in what will be one of the more memorable comebacks in recent Crimson Tide history, 34-24.

Following is a look at a few instant reactions to Alabama's CFP first round win against Oklahoma on Friday night.

Alabama dominates final three quarters

Alabama started this game about as bad as any in recent memory, eventually trailing 17-0 at one point early in the second quarter. Since falling behind by 17, Alabama outscored Oklahoma a combined 34-7 to claim the win.

Simpson to Brooks on fourth down was turning point

Down 17-0 in the second quarter, Ty Simpson connected with Lotzeir Brooks on a fourth-and-two from the six-yard line, which went for a touchdown. This was likely the turning point in the contest, as it gave Alabama some momentum when it had none, and was followed by some huge plays in the second quarter such as a Tim Keenan III blocked punt, as well as a 50-yard pick six by Zabien Brown, to tie the game, which the Crimson Tide never looked back from.

Alabama wins turnover battle

Coming into Friday night's game, Alabama committed a combined six turnovers the last two seasons against the Oklahoma defense. In this win, Alabama did not turn the ball over at all, and forced an Oklahoma interception that was returned for a pick six, something the Sooners had done to the Crimson Tide in each of the prior two games.

Alabama wins special teams

The special teams matchup was key Friday night, and when comparing the two, you could certainly make the argument that Alabama won the battle. Conor Talty also went 2-for-2 on field goals, while Tate Sandell went 1-for-3.

Alabama is heading to the Rose Bowl

As a result of Alabama's win against Oklahoma, the Crimson Tide are now moving on to the CFP quarterfinals where a matchup with No. 1 overall seed Indiana awaits. That game will be played New Year's Day, Jan. 1, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football instant reactions to CFP first round win vs. Oklahoma

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