The Alabama football team’s defeat to Oklahoma seems worse than it actually was for a number of reasons. Losing to a ranked team by two points, even at home, is far from catastrophic. Although Oklahoma’s defensive strategy and execution deserve praise, Alabama supporters are irritated by the Crimson Tide’s role in the team’s loss.

The fact that the game seriously raised doubts about the Crimson Tide is what worries Alabama football fans the most. The defense put up by Kane Wommack was excellent. However, the offenses of Ryan Grubb and Kalen DeBoer were quite different. Now, the question that needs to be addressed is whether Alabama’s offense is capable of winning any postseason games.

It will be fascinating to observe whether the Tide’s offensive effectiveness declines when Brian Fremeau’s opponent-adjusted efficiency ratings (OFEI) are revised. Alabama ranked ninth in the country in OFEI prior to the OU game, and seventeenth when opponent strength was not taken into account. Alabama is currently ranked No. 13 in the ESPN FPI offensive efficiency rankings, which is only sixth-best among SEC teams.

Alabama is typically ranked between eighth and tenth in the upcoming CFB Playoff rankings. The Crimson Tide would play a road game in the playoffs if two of the three spots were taken. Many Alabama supporters tremble when the playoffs begin at South Bend, Eugene, or Norman. The Crimson Tide hosting a first-round match would increase their chances of making it to the quarterfinals (and possibly beyond).

Alabama Football Benefits from a Vanderbilt WIn

Fans of Alabama who concur with the aforementioned should support the Vanderbilt Commodores in their matchup versus Kentucky. We are aware that Alabama needs the Dores to win another SEC game because of the useful formula that mred gave. The Vols and the Wildcats are their two options. Alabama, the winner of the Iron Bowl, would defeat Georgia and Ole Miss in a tie-breaker if Vandy prevailed in either game.

A playoff home game is not guaranteed if you advance to Atlanta. The Crimson Tide wouldn’t be eliminated from the playoffs with a third defeat. A road game would result from that. Alabama may be eligible for a first-round bye if they win in Atlanta.

While Alabama takes out their frustrations on Eastern Illinois on Saturday, fans may also pay attention to the Nashville game. Put aside any animosity toward Diego Pavia and support the Commodores.