Pasadena, California — The Indiana Hoosiers continued their historic march in college football by decisively defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide 38-3 in the Rose Bowl, showcasing a stellar performance on a rainy day. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the charge, completing 14 of 16 passes for 192 yards and three touchdowns as Indiana advanced to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
With the victory, top-seeded Indiana (14-0) clinched its first-ever win in the CFP, setting the stage for a rematch against Oregon in the Peach Bowl on January 9. The Hoosiers previously overcame the Ducks 30-20 earlier this season. Coach Curt Cignetti emphasized the importance of consistency and execution, a sentiment echoed in Mendoza’s performance, which also featured 16 rushing yards on eight attempts.
Indiana dominated the game from the outset, scoring the first 24 points. Touchdowns from wide receivers Charlie Becker, Omar Cooper Jr., and Elijah Sarratt, complemented by fourth-quarter efforts from running backs Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby, cemented the win. Indiana outgained Alabama 407 to 193, as jubilant fans celebrated the team’s first Rose Bowl appearance since 1968.
Mendoza acknowledged the challenges of maintaining rhythm during a bye week but expressed confidence in his team. “Once we got our feet on the ground, we knew that we were going to stick together and come out with this win,” he stated during a postgame interview.
Historically, the Hoosiers struggled in bowl games, last winning the Copper Bowl in 1991. However, under Cignetti’s leadership, they have enjoyed remarkable success, transitioning from the losingest program in college football to a powerhouse with back-to-back seasons of significant achievements. Indiana also became the first team to advance following a first-round bye in the current 12-team playoff format.
Alabama concluded its season with an 11-4 record, having faced challenges late in the year, including losses to Georgia and Indiana. The Crimson Tide, led by head coach Kalen DeBoer, managed just 151 total yards in the Rose Bowl, a stark contrast to their previous impressive win over Oklahoma. Ty Simpson’s passing contributed only 67 yards before being replaced by Austin Mack in the second half.
Cignetti expressed satisfaction in building a winning culture in Indiana football, noting the significance of this season’s accomplishments. The victory over Alabama is a testament to the program’s transformation, as the team looks forward to future challenges. “Looking forward to the flight home and a day off tomorrow,” he remarked after the game, signaling the team’s focus is now on the upcoming Peach Bowl and the pursuit of their first national championship.
