Top-seeded Indiana routs Alabama 38-3 for its first Rose Bowl victory, roaring into CFP semifinals

Published: Friday, January 2, 2026 at 12:30 am

Indiana Dominates Alabama in Rose Bowl, Advances to CFP Semifinals

Indiana delivered a resounding victory over Alabama in the 112th Rose Bowl, securing a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals. The top-seeded Hoosiers overwhelmed the Crimson Tide with a final score of 38-3, marking their first-ever Rose Bowl win.

Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, playing his first game since winning the Heisman Trophy, threw for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Indiana's offense proved unstoppable, with rushing touchdowns from Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby in the fourth quarter. The Hoosiers' defense was equally dominant, holding Alabama to a mere 193 total yards.

Indiana's victory was a culmination of a remarkable turnaround under coach Curt Cignetti. The team, which had not won a bowl game since 1991, is now headed to the Peach Bowl to face Oregon in a CFP semifinal rematch. Indiana previously defeated Oregon in October.

The Hoosiers' path to the semifinals was further aided by a first-round bye in the new 12-team playoff format. They are now two wins away from clinching their first national championship in school history.

Alabama's performance was a stark contrast, with their second season under coach Kalen DeBoer ending in disappointment. Quarterback Ty Simpson struggled, and the team managed only a single field goal.

BNN's Perspective:

Indiana's dominant performance in the Rose Bowl is a testament to the power of coaching and player development. While Alabama's loss is a setback, it highlights the unpredictable nature of college football. Indiana's success story is a positive development for the sport, showcasing the potential for programs to rise to the top with the right leadership and execution.

Keywords: Indiana, Alabama, Rose Bowl, College Football Playoff, CFP, Fernando Mendoza, Curt Cignetti, Hoosiers, Crimson Tide, Peach Bowl, Oregon, Football, NCAA, Sports, Championship

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