Ahead of Saturday’s matchup against Alabama in Tuscaloosa (2:30 p.m. CT, ABC), Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables spoke to the media on a number of topics.

Venables made known his respect for the history and tradition of the two programs that will be facing off this weekend between Oklahoma and Alabama. 

The Sooners are 4-1 all-time against the Crimson Tide, including a 24-3 upset win in Norman last season, which was Venables’ first-ever meeting against Alabama as the Oklahoma head coach.

He also gave injury updates on defensive end R Mason Thomas, along with linebacker Kobie McKinzie. Thomas tweaked his hamstring on a fumble return against Tennessee, while McKinzie injured his groin against Ole Miss.

Venables also sang the praises of senior defensive lineman Gracen Halton. Halton has developed into one of the Sooners’ top defensive talents and leaders.

The Sooners head coach also discussed the stadium renovations to the west side of Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The OU Board of Regents is expected to hold a vote on the next phase of the plans this week.

1. Recognizing the history and tradition of the Sooners facing Alabama

“Two of the most iconic brands in college football… Going to be a great, great challenge, but it’s something I know our guys are looking forward to.”

2. On defensive lineman Gracen Halton

“He’s developed into a leader. He has more of a centralized focus to him. He was a tremendous athlete when he got here, and he’s really worked hard to develop.”

3. Injury status of defensive end R Mason Thomas and linebacker Kobie McKinzie

“I haven’t seen them on the field… we’ll see where they’re at.”

4. West side stadium renovations

"I'm not — some of the level of detail, I'm not included in those conversations. But it's incredibly exciting. I think it shows a commitment to our fans, certainly our players, our program. The thing that it's going to potentially provide from a gameday experience — and it's 100 years old, the stadium is. So it's coming at the right time. I know there's things that have to take place tomorrow to ensure we can take the next step in that direction. But I think everybody's gonna be excited when all the details and all the renderings come out, whenever that is. But it's also a source of pride for our university community, as well. Looking forward to taking another big step that way. I don't want to get into all those details, it's not really my lane. But there's been incredible support, financially speaking, to make it happen, as well."