Stopping to smell the roses (and win a trophy) (Photos – rosebowlgame)
The Indiana Hoosiers made history on Thursday afternoon with a stunning 38-3 victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl. The Hoosiers’ first-ever Rose Bowl win not only secured their place in the College Football Playoff semifinals but also capped off a remarkable season for the No. 1 ranked team in the nation.
By John Boucher
Before a packed crowd of more than 90,000 at the Rose Bowl Stadium, Indiana dominated from start to finish, marking the largest postseason margin of defeat in Alabama’s storied history. The Crimson Tide, ranked No. 9, had no answer for Indiana’s high-powered offense and suffocating defense, which overwhelmed them throughout the game.
This victory follows a historic run for the Hoosiers, who entered the season as the No. 20 team in the country and steadily climbed the ranks, reaching the No. 2 spot by Week 9. Indiana went on to win the Big Ten Championship for the first time since 1967, defeating Ohio State in a thrilling 13-10 game. With a perfect 13-0 record entering the postseason, the Hoosiers were the only undefeated team remaining in the Football Bowl Subdivision, earning them the No. 1 overall seed in the College Football Playoff.
Indiana’s performance in the Rose Bowl was nothing short of dominant. The Hoosiers, who were making their second-ever appearance in the prestigious game, erased any doubts about their ability to compete on the national stage. Their previous Rose Bowl appearance in 1968 ended in defeat, but this year, they proved they belonged among the nation’s elite.
On the other side, Alabama, fresh off a 34-24 win over Oklahoma in the first round of the CFP Playoff, came into the game with a 10-3 record. Despite their previous Rose Bowl successes, including a 5-2-1 record in the prestigious game, the Crimson Tide were unable to keep up with Indiana’s relentless offense and smothering defense. The loss marked Alabama’s largest postseason defeat ever.
Indiana’s victory was a showcase of everything that has made them the nation’s top team this season: balanced offense, stellar defense, and the leadership of a program that has risen to new heights. With the win, the Hoosiers are now just one step away from competing for a national championship.
The pre-game festivities for the 2026 Rose Bowl began at noon PT, following the annual Rose Parade. The game was broadcast nationally on ESPN.
As the Hoosiers celebrate this monumental achievement, they now turn their attention to the College Football Playoff semifinals, where they will continue their quest for a national title. For Indiana, a season that began with humble expectations is now on the verge of becoming one of the most unforgettable in college football history.
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