UPDATE: In a stunning display of dominance, the Indiana Hoosiers routed the Alabama Crimson Tide 38-3 in the 112th Rose Bowl on January 1, 2024, propelling them into the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. This victory marks Indiana’s first-ever Rose Bowl win and solidifies their position as the top seed in the playoff.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza shone with three touchdown passes, throwing for 192 yards in his return after winning the Heisman Trophy. The Hoosiers (14-0) outclassed the Crimson Tide (11-4), dominating both offensively and defensively, and establishing a commanding lead with the first 24 points of the game.
Indiana’s impressive performance continued into the fourth quarter with rushing touchdowns from Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby. The Hoosiers amassed 407 total yards compared to Alabama’s mere 193 yards, thrilling a raucous crowd that celebrated their team’s first Rose Bowl appearance since 1968.
The victory is not just a historic moment for Indiana, but a testament to the transformative leadership of head coach Curt Cignetti. Since taking over, Cignetti has led the team to an astonishing record of 25-2, turning around a program that was once the losingest in college football.
The Hoosiers are now set to face Oregon in the CFP semifinals on January 9, 2024, after the Ducks defeated Texas Tech 23-0 earlier in the day. Indiana previously beat Oregon 30-20 last October, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch.
Alabama’s season ends dramatically, with their second consecutive Rose Bowl defeat, echoing the struggles of their past under former coach Nick Saban. Despite a solid performance against Oklahoma just one week prior, the Crimson Tide struggled to find their footing in this matchup, managing only a short field goal in the second half.
As Indiana celebrates this monumental achievement, they remain just two wins away from claiming their first national championship in school history. The excitement in the air is palpable as fans chant “Hoosier Daddy?” in the stands, a reflection of their pride and the long-awaited success of their team.
With a clear path ahead and momentum on their side, all eyes will be on the Hoosiers as they aim to continue their historic run in the upcoming College Football Playoff.