Sooners Fans Arrive Early as Norman Gears Up for College Football Playoff Showdown

NORMAN, Okla. — Hours before kickoff, fans of the Oklahoma Sooners were already filling the areas surrounding the stadium Thursday, staking out tailgate spots and setting the tone for a highly anticipated College Football Playoff showdown.

Some tailgaters arrived as early as 4 a.m., determined to secure long-standing gathering locations that have become tradition for alumni and longtime supporters.

“This alumni group has been tailgating in this exact spot for at least 20 years,” said former Ruf-Nek Brian Blew, who attended the University of Oklahoma in the mid-1980s. Blew said he and his friends arrived shortly before sunrise to make sure their spot wasn’t taken. “You have to get here early. There’s always competition on a day like this.”

As the morning progressed, more fans poured into Norman, unloading grills, tents and coolers as the city prepared for a primetime clash against the Alabama Crimson Tide, scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday.

On the northeast side of the stadium near Heisman Park, tailgate groups were already setting up large gatherings expected to draw more than 100 people.

“We usually get about 100 to 150 folks down here,” said Todd Bowling, who arrived around 4 a.m. “We call ourselves the Sooner Bowl Drinking Hole. This is how we get ready for a game like this.”

University officials say anticipation for the playoff matchup has been building for weeks, with expectations of a packed stadium and a nationally watched atmosphere.

“We’re expecting a massive crowd, a fantastic game and an electric environment,” said Ryan Majercik, OU’s Associate Athletic Director for Strategic Marketing and Fan Engagement. “This is one of those nights people will remember for a long time.”

The university has planned several pregame events, including the Walk of Champions, scheduled to begin at 4:55 p.m., and a fighter jet flyover featuring four F-35 aircraft. A pregame parachute jump is also planned, weather permitting.

Officials are encouraging fans to arrive early, noting increased traffic and parking congestion due to the Friday night kickoff.

Oklahoma enters the matchup having won the last two meetings against Alabama, but with far more at stake this time — a spot in the College Football Playoff and a chance to continue a championship run.

As the sun rose over Norman, the message from fans was clear: the city is ready, the tailgates are full, and the stage is set for one of the biggest nights in college football.