Oklahoma's Venables and Alabama's DeBoer lead their teams to the College Football Playoff after overcoming past struggles.

Oklahoma's Brent Venables and Alabama's Kalen DeBoer have led their programs to the College Football Playoff, overcoming past struggles and intense pressure. Venables, in his fourth season, guided the Sooners to a 10-2 record with strong defense and special teams, while DeBoer, in his second year after Nick Saban’s retirement, led Alabama to a 10-3 season after a disappointing 2023. Both coaches silenced critics and reaffirmed their commitment to their programs ahead of a crucial playoff matchup.