TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— Kalen DeBoer has Alabama in the College Football Playoff in just his second season as the Crimson Tide's head coach. No. 9 Alabama (10-3) will travel to No. 8 Oklahoma (10-2) for the opening-round game on Friday.

Michigan's unexpected entry in this season's coaching carousel following the firing of Sherrone Moore sparked conversation surrounding potential candidates with Alabama's Kalen DeBoer considered among the best fits.

Some of Alabama football's top starters are dealing with injury and illness ahead of the College Football Playoff trip to Oklahoma.

Alabama football could have a handful of players back for its first round meeting against Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff.