Indiana Dominates Alabama 38-3, Advances to College Football Playoff
UPDATE: In a stunning display of dominance, No. 1 Indiana crushed No. 9 Alabama 38-3 in the 112th Rose Bowl on December 28, 2023, securing its first-ever victory in this prestigious game and a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw three touchdown passes and led Indiana to a decisive win, marking a significant achievement for the Hoosiers (14-0, No. 1 CFP seed). Mendoza, fresh off winning the school’s first Heisman Trophy, completed 192 yards in a commanding performance that thrilled a pro-Indiana crowd.
Indiana established its dominance early in the game, scoring the first 24 points and maintaining control throughout. Fourth-quarter rushing touchdowns from Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby sealed the victory. The Hoosiers outgained the Crimson Tide (11-4, No. 9 CFP seed) 407-193, showcasing their prowess at the line of scrimmage.
This landmark victory not only ends Indiana’s 32-year bowl win drought but also sets the stage for the Peach Bowl on January 9, where they will face fifth-seeded Oregon. The Ducks secured their semifinal position by defeating Texas Tech 23-0 earlier in the day. Indiana previously defeated Oregon 30-20 in a key matchup last October, fueling hopes for a national championship.
The Hoosiers’ ascent is remarkable, transforming from the losingest program in college football to a playoff powerhouse under head coach Curt Cignetti. With a record of 25-2 since Cignetti took over, Indiana is now just two wins away from its first national championship.
Indiana’s defense was relentless, effectively shutting down Alabama’s offense. Quarterback Ty Simpson struggled, managing just 67 yards before being replaced by Austin Mack, who contributed a short field goal during a brief rally. However, Indiana’s defense quickly responded, stifling any momentum the Crimson Tide attempted to build.
As fans erupted in chants of “Hoosier Daddy?” in the final moments, the emotional weight of this victory was palpable. Indiana’s first Rose Bowl appearance since 1968 culminated in a jubilant celebration, marking a significant milestone for a program that has faced long struggles.
The weather conditions added to the drama, with nearly 24 hours of rain preceding the game. Fortunately, the skies cleared, allowing the Hoosiers to shine on the pristine Rose Bowl turf.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Peach Bowl, all eyes will be on Indiana as they seek to continue their historic run. The Hoosiers are poised to make waves in the College Football Playoff, representing a remarkable turnaround for a team that has risen from the ashes.
Stay tuned for further updates as Indiana chases its dream of a national title in one of college football’s most competitive playoff formats.
