Look, there is nothing quite like a Saturday in the South, even when the humidity isn't melting your face off and the calendar says January. If you're a Crimson Tide fan, your internal clock is probably already set for tip-off. But let's be real—the SEC's TV deals are a moving target these days, and finding out what channel is the alabama game on saturday shouldn't feel like a math mid-term.
This Saturday, January 17, 2026, Nate Oats is taking his No. 18 ranked squad into Norman, Oklahoma. It’s a road trip to the Lloyd Noble Center to face the Sooners, and honestly, this isn't just another game. It’s a test of whether Alabama can keep that high-octane momentum rolling after a gritty win over Mississippi State earlier this week.
Where to Find the Alabama vs Oklahoma Game
If you’re staring at your remote wondering where to click, here is the breakdown. The game is scheduled for a 12:00 PM CT (1:00 PM ET) start. You can catch the live broadcast on SEC Network.
For the cord-cutters out there—and I know there are many of you—the game will be streaming via the ESPN app. You'll just need your provider login. If you’re deep into the "no-cable" lifestyle, services like Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV all carry SEC Network as part of their standard sports tiers.
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Quick Specs for the Game:
- Matchup: Alabama Crimson Tide at Oklahoma Sooners
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
- Time: 12:00 PM CT / 1:00 PM ET
- TV Channel: SEC Network
- Radio: Crimson Tide Sports Network (usually 95.3 The Bear in Tuscaloosa)
Why This Saturday Matters for Bama
We need to talk about Labaron Philon. The kid has been an absolute spark plug lately. Coming off a 30-point performance against Mississippi State, he’s basically the heartbeat of this offense right now. Alabama is sitting at 12-5 overall and 2-2 in the SEC, which means they are right on the bubble of "contender" or "middle of the pack."
Winning on the road in Norman is never easy. The Sooners have a way of slowing things down, which is the exact opposite of what Oats wants to do. Bama wants to run. They want to shoot within seven seconds. They want to make you tired just watching them.
Oklahoma is looking to play spoiler. They’ve had some ups and downs in their new home in the SEC, but they’ve proven they can be physical. If Alabama can’t control the boards—something they actually did well against State, out-rebounding them 47-43—it’s going to be a long afternoon in Oklahoma.
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Navigating the 2026 SEC TV Schedule
I get it. It’s confusing. One week you’re on ABC, the next you’re on ESPN2, and then suddenly you're digging through the depths of SEC Network+. For those asking what channel is the alabama game on saturday, it's helpful to remember that the SEC's partnership with Disney (ESPN/ABC) means the "prime" games usually land on the main channels, while the mid-day matchups often settle into the SEC Network slot.
Next week is even more chaotic. Alabama hosts Tennessee on Saturday, January 24, and that one is a "flex" game, likely landing on ESPN or ESPN2 at 7:30 PM CT. Then, on February 1st, they actually have an ABC slot against Florida. It’s a lot to track.
Pro-Tip for Bama Fans
If you ever find yourself without a TV, the radio broadcast is actually elite. Chris Stewart on the call provides a level of energy that even the high-def cameras can’t capture. You can usually find the stream on the Varsity Network app if you’re out running errands or stuck at a kid’s birthday party (we’ve all been there).
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What to Watch For on the Court
Keep an eye on the rotation. Oats has been running a tight ship lately, but the depth is starting to show. Amari Allen has been huge on the glass, averaging over 7 rebounds a game. If Aiden Sherrell can stay out of foul trouble and keep protecting the rim—he’s averaging nearly 3 blocks—the Tide should be able to dictate the pace.
The Sooners usually try to clog the paint. If Bama's shots from the perimeter aren't falling early, don't panic. This team is built to survive cold streaks by sheer volume of attempts. It's "Blue Collar Basketball," after all.
Actionable Steps for Saturday Morning
- Check your subscription: Ensure SEC Network isn't "blacked out" or part of an unpurchased "Sports Pack" on your streaming service.
- Sync the Audio: If you prefer the local radio call over the national TV announcers, use the "Pause" button on your DVR to sync the TV image with the radio stream. It takes about 30 seconds of fiddling, but it’s worth it.
- Monitor the Rankings: Since Bama is currently No. 18, a road win could propel them back toward the Top 15, especially with the Tennessee game looming on the horizon.
Before you sit down, make sure you've got the ESPN app updated on your phone or smart TV. These updates always seem to trigger right at tip-off when you're most stressed. Get it done by 11:30 AM so you're ready when the ball goes up at noon.