Indiana Triumphs 38-3 Over Alabama for First CFP Rose Bowl Win
In a historic matchup, Indiana University triumphed over Alabama with a decisive 38-3 victory in the Rose Bowl, marking the Hoosiers’ first-ever win at this prestigious event. Held in Pasadena, California, this 112th edition of the Rose Bowl showcased Indiana’s dominance on the field.
Key Highlights of the Game
- Quarterback Fernando Mendoza completed three touchdown passes.
- Indiana outgained Alabama with a total of 407 yards compared to Alabama’s 193 yards.
- The Hoosiers scored the first 24 points of the game.
- Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby each rushed for touchdowns in the fourth quarter.
Game Breakdown
Mendoza, who also recently won the Heisman Trophy, threw for 192 yards. His performance led Indiana to a strong 14-0 season record, crowning them as the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Indiana’s defense significantly stifled Alabama throughout the match.
The Hoosiers were previously recognized for their long struggle without a bowl game victory since 1991, making this win particularly memorable for fans. The celebratory atmosphere included chants of “Hoosier Daddy?” from a thrilled crowd that had not seen the team in a Rose Bowl since 1968.
Upcoming Challenges
With this victory, Indiana qualifies for the Peach Bowl on January 9, where they will face off against Oregon, the fifth seed. Earlier in the day, Oregon won against Texas Tech, reinforcing their strong position. Indiana previously beat Oregon 30-20 last October, setting the stage for an exciting rematch.
Coach Curt Cignetti’s leadership has transformed the Hoosiers, bringing the team from a historically losing program to one poised for a national championship. They have also achieved the milestone of advancing through the current 12-team playoff format with a first-round bye.
Statistics Summary
| Team | Points | Total Yards | TD Passes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 38 | 407 | 3 |
| Alabama | 3 | 193 | 0 |
As Indiana prepares for the Peach Bowl, they stand just two victories away from their first national championship. Their journey reflects a remarkable turnaround, revitalizing a once-struggling program into a championship contender.
