The first round of the College Football Playoff delivered a weekend full of momentum swings, dramatic comebacks and breakout performances as 12 teams began the final push towards the National Championship.
Alabama Completes Historic Comeback Against Oklahoma
Alabama produced the most dramatic result, storming back from a 17‑0 deficit to defeat Oklahoma 34–24 in Norman — the largest comeback in Crimson Tide CFP or bowl history. Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, fully recovered from midseason thumb surgery, sparked the early surge with both a rushing and passing touchdown, finishing with 307 yards.
Alabama responded behind a healthier lineup and a sharp outing from quarterback Ty Simpson, who threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns. Sophomore receiver Lotzeir Brooks scored twice, while defensive back Zavien Brown flipped the game with a 50‑yard pick‑six before halftime. After Oklahoma cut the lead to three in the fourth quarter, Daniel Hill’s touchdown sealed the Tide’s surge. Alabama now advances to face top‑seeded Indiana in the Rose Bowl.
Miami Stuns Texas A&M in Defensive Slugfest
Miami delivered the weekend’s biggest upset, grinding out a 10–3 win over Texas A&M at Kyle Field. The Hurricanes’ defense dominated with seven sacks, led by standout edge rusher Reuben Bain Jr., while senior defensive back Keionte Scott made an immediate impact in his return.
Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. powered the offense with 172 rushing yards, and quarterback Carson Beck delivered late, connecting with freshman Malachi Toney for the game‑winning touchdown. Toney also flipped field position with a 55‑yard punt return, and freshman Bryce Fitzgerald sealed the win with his second interception. Miami now prepares for a Cotton Bowl showdown with No. 2 Ohio State — their first postseason meeting since the 2003 Fiesta Bowl.
Ole Miss Dominates Tulane in Post‑Kiffin Statement Win
Ole Miss showcased its depth and stability in the post‑Kiffin era, rolling past Tulane 41–10. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss accounted for three total touchdowns and 318 yards, while running back Kewan Lacy added 87 yards and a score.
The Rebels opened with rushing touchdowns on their first two drives and controlled the game throughout, outscoring Tulane 24–7 after halftime. Tulane quarterback Jake Retzlaff threw for 306 yards and a touchdown but couldn’t keep pace with the Rebels’ balanced attack. Ole Miss advances to a Sugar Bowl rematch with No. 3 Georgia.
Oregon Rolls Past James Madison Behind Dante Moore
Oregon closed the weekend with a commanding 51–34 win over James Madison, looking every bit like a title contender behind sophomore quarterback Dante Moore. Moore threw for 313 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Ducks to scores on their first five possessions and building a 34–6 halftime lead.
James Madison quarterback Alonza Barnett III kept the Dukes competitive with 273 passing yards and three total touchdowns, but Oregon’s early explosion proved too much to overcome. The Ducks now turn their attention to Big 12 champion Texas Tech in the Capital One Orange Bowl.
