Alabama players welcome the prospect of winter weather at Oklahoma

Alabama Wide Receiver Ryan Williams (2) during practice at Thomas-Drew Practice Fields in Tuscaloosa, AL on Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025.

Kalen DeBoer is going to need his signature black hoodie for next week when No. 9 Alabama travels to No. 8 Oklahoma in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Crimson Tide and Sooners will suit up in football weather, as temperatures are expected to dip into the 40s during the matchup. 

In all actuality, DeBoer isn’t the one who has to worry about cold temperatures. The Millbank, South Dakota native grew up in freezing weather and dealt with it in previous coaching stops such as Sioux Falls, Southern Illinois, Eastern Michigan, Indiana and Washington.

The majority of Alabama’s roster, on the other hand, is used to a warmer climate. 

“Hey, hey, I’m from Memphis,” linebacker Justin Jefferson said with a smile. “It don’t even snow that much in Memphis. Shoot, regardless though, I’m ready. Rain, sleet or snow, I’m ready. It don’t matter to me.”

While game-time temps might be a little chilly next week, snow seems like a stretch at the moment. That being said, an Alabama game with a little winter weather would quite the sight.  

Alabama had to deal with some snow during the 1964 Sugar Bowl when it took down Ole Miss, 12-7, inside Tulane Stadium. While snow didn’t fall during that game, New Orleans did receive 3.6 inches of powder the day before. 

Norman, Oklahoma, received a light dusting of snow last week, so snowfall around this time would hardly be unprecedented for the area. And if Alabama gets to march out in its road whites under the snowflakes, its players won’t be complaining. 

“I’ve never played in snow,” said receiver Ryan Williams, a Saraland, Alabama native, “but if we do get snow, I would be excited.” 

While Jefferson doesn’t seem as thrilled about the potential of winter weather, he assured that he’s anxious to get onto the field regardless of the conditions. 

“Like I said, I love football,” Jefferson said. I’m ready for football. And, shoot, whatever comes with the weather is what it is. I’m going to have to deal with it.”

Tuscaloosa, Alabama native Wilkin Formby actually welcomes the colder temperatures. The 6-foot-7, 324-pound lineman says he typically runs hot and won’t be making any changes to his game-time attire. 

“I’m pretty large, so I’ve got a little extra padding,” Formby said. “I don’t really get too cold. I sweat a lot, too. So if I go out there with sleeves on, I’ll be dying regardless of the temperature.” 

Weather can affect footwear, as some positions opt for longer studs on their cleats in colder conditions. Jefferson said he’ll be ready if he has to pivot his footwear on the fly. 

“I always take two pairs of cleats,” Jefferson said. “I’ve got my favorite cleats, and I’ve got my backup favorite cleats. Usually they keep me good. You’ve got to have your feet under your body, and you should be good.”

Alabama and Oklahoma are set to kick off at 7 p.m. CT on Friday, Dec. 19. The game will be televised by ABC and ESPN.