Historically, it would be difficult to find a sharper contrast in College football playoffs quarterfinals than in the Rose Bowl quarterfinals. No. 9 Alabama has a strong case as college football's most successful program of all time, ranking high in all-time wins, national titles, Heisman winners, bowl wins and conference titles. On the other hand, you have Indiana, not ranked in the top 100 all-time in wins, and just coming out of it. first full conference title since 1945.
Alabama leaves dramatic CFP victory in the first round against Oklahoma. The Crimson Tide trailed by 17 points in the first half before rallying for a 34-24 win, becoming the first team to win a road game in the 12-team CFP.
Indiana is making its second straight appearance in the CFP and will play in the quarterfinals for the first time in program history. The Hoosiers lost. Our Lady Iin the first round of last season but this year went 13-0 and won Ohio in the Big Ten Championship Game to earn a berth in the Rose Bowl.
WITH Inclement weather expected at 2026 Rose BowlA rarity for this legendary game, there is everything on the table.
Stay tuned for real-time updates and analysis as Indiana will face Alabama in the 2026 Rose Bowl.
Where to watch Alabama vs. Indiana live
Date: Thursday, January 1 | Time: 4:00 pm Eastern Time
Location: Rose Bowl – Pasadena, California.
TV: alphabet | Live broadcast: fubo (Try for free)
Alabama vs. Indiana: Players to Watch in the Rose Bowl
Ty SimpsonQB, Alabama: Simpson leaves one of his most powerful performances weeks after Alabama pulled off a dramatic win over Oklahoma. He completed 19 of 29 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns as the Crimson Tide erased a 17-point first-half deficit. Simpson enters the Rose Bowl having thrown for 3,500 yards and 28 touchdowns with five interceptions. For Alabama to pull off the upset, the offense will need its best form.
Ryan WilliamsWR, Alabama: Williams has been one of the most enigmatic players in college football this season. After an outstanding freshman campaign, his performance was inconsistent. He has recorded two or fewer receptions in each of his last four games, including a one-catch, five-yard performance against Oklahoma. The Rose Bowl would be the perfect platform for Williams to rediscover his big-game form.
Bray HubbardDB, Alabama: Hubbard has been one of Alabama's most reliable defenders this season. He finished with five tackles against Oklahoma in the first round of the CFP. For the year, Hubbard totaled 66 tackles (40 solo), three forced fumbles and four interceptions. Alabama's defense will be the focus against Indiana's potent offense.
Fernando MendozaQB, Indiana: Mendoza transferred from Cal this offseason and immediately improved Indiana's offense. In 13 games, he completed 71.5% of his passes for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns and six interceptions. Known for his accuracy, Mendoza threw for 222 yards and a touchdown against Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game. sealed the Heisman Trophy.
Omar Cooper Jr.WR, Indiana: Indiana has several receivers capable of spreading the field, and Cooper has been the most productive. He leads the team with 58 receptions and 804 receiving yards and finished second with 11 touchdown catches, second only to Elijah Surratt.
Rolaia HardyLB, Indiana: Indiana ranked second nationally in total yards allowed and points allowed per game, and Hardy played a central role in that success. He leads the Hoosiers with 87 tackles and eight sacks and added four pass breakups this season.
Forecast for the match Alabama – Oklahoma, selection
Last year's Rose Bowl was one of the most shocking events of the entire football season. No. 1 seed Oregon was stunned by Ohio State after finishing the regular season with a strong record. Not saying it will happen, but I expect this game to be competitive. Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer has proven he can lead his teams to victories over ranked opponents. Indiana will win, but it will be a one-score game. Pick: Alabama +6.5 (-102)
