It was the national championship game for the 2008 NCAA Division I FBS football season, and featured the second-ranked Florida Gators against the top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners.

[4] The Sooners, coached by Bob Stoops, lost one game during their regular season to Texas in the annual Red River Rivalry contest, 45–35 on October 11.

The 2008 Florida Gators football season was marked by a powerful combination of dynamic offense and relentless defense.

Under head coach Urban Meyer, the team, led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Tim Tebow, finished the regular season with a 12-1 record, showcasing a potent spread offense and a formidable defense that consistently stifled opponents.

Key victories included a thrilling win against rival Georgia and a dominant performance in the SEC Championship game against Alabama.