In a commanding performance, the top-seeded Indiana Hoosiers defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide 38-3 in the 112th Rose Bowl, securing their first victory in the prestigious event. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw three touchdown passes and led his team to a decisive win on January 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone for a program that has struggled historically.
The Hoosiers, who finished the season with a perfect record of 14-0, dominated the game at the line of scrimmage. They took an early lead, scoring the first 24 points before closing out the match with rushing touchdowns from Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby in the fourth quarter. Mendoza, who recently won the school’s first Heisman Trophy, completed 19 of 28 passes for 192 yards, showcasing his skills on a national stage.
Indiana’s offense outgained Alabama significantly, finishing with 407 total yards compared to the Crimson Tide’s 193. This performance delighted a pro-Indiana crowd in Pasadena, who celebrated their team’s first Rose Bowl appearance since 1968 with chants of “Hoosier Daddy?” as the game progressed.
Indiana’s defense played a crucial role in the victory, effectively neutralizing Alabama’s offensive efforts. The Crimson Tide, under head coach Kalen DeBoer in his second season, struggled to find any rhythm, managing just 151 yards of offense until the closing moments of the game. Quarterback Ty Simpson was limited to 67 passing yards before being replaced by backup Austin Mack, who briefly sparked a 65-yard drive that ended with a field goal.
Curt Cignetti, Indiana’s head coach, has transformed the Hoosiers into a formidable team over the past two seasons. Under his guidance, the program has gone from one of the losingest in college football to a national contender. This victory allows Indiana to advance to the Peach Bowl on January 9, 2024, where they will face fifth-seeded Oregon, a team they previously defeated last October.
The Hoosiers’ historic win marks their first bowl victory since the Copper Bowl in 1991. With a growing legacy under Cignetti, they are now just two wins away from their first national championship.
The game also highlighted Alabama’s ongoing struggles, particularly their inability to establish a strong running game, which has plagued them throughout the season. The Tide’s performance in Pasadena served as a stark contrast to their impressive road win over Oklahoma just a week prior.
As both teams look ahead, Alabama will host East Carolina on September 5, while Indiana prepares for a pivotal showdown against Oregon in Atlanta. This Rose Bowl victory not only signifies a historic achievement for Indiana but also sets the stage for an exciting playoff run as they aim for a national title.
