Alabama, Indiana Set for Historic Rose Bowl Clash on New Year’s Day PASADENA, Calif. (Interstat) — An undefeated Indiana squad and a battle-tested Alabama team will meet in a high-stakes showdown at the Rose Bowl on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in a game featuring contrasting resumes and postseason pedigrees. The No. 1-ranked Indiana Hoosiers (13-0) enter as the nation’s only unbeaten team, seeking their first national championship. Their path included a statement 13-10 road victory at Ohio State on Dec. 6 to clinch their playoff berth. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15-of-23, 222 yards, 1 TD in that win) pilots a balanced offense supported by running backs Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby. Indiana’s dominant season saw them win every game by at least 10 points, including blowouts of Purdue (56-3) and UCLA (56-6). The Alabama Crimson Tide (11-3), the visiting team, arrives with three losses but a resume built against a gauntlet of top opponents. The Tide are coming off a 34-24 victory over Oklahoma in the national semifinal on Dec. 19. Quarterback Ty Simpson, a key player to watch, was efficient in that win, completing 18 of 29 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns. Alabama’s season includes a tough 28-7 loss to Georgia on Dec. 6, but also notable wins over the Bulldogs (24-21 on Sept. 27), LSU and Tennessee. Despite Indiana’s perfect record, Alabama has been installed as a 7-point favorite by oddsmakers. The total over/under is set at 48.5 points. National Statistical’s game simulator projects a 34-18 Alabama victory. The game pits Indiana’s perfect record and consistent dominance against Alabama’s championship experience and strength of schedule. It will be the first meeting between the programs since 1987. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. PST at the Rose Bowl. The game will be televised nationally by ESPN.