Indiana upset Alabama 38-3 in the Rose Bowl, reaching the CFP semifinals for the first time.

In the 2026 Rose Bowl, Indiana shocked Alabama 38-3 to advance to the College Football Playoff semifinals and earn their first postseason victory. The Hoosiers changed from a 3-9 team in 2024 to a national contender under head coach Curt Cignetti, with a strong offensive and defensive performance. The triumph, which included a crucial victory over Oregon earlier in the season, puts Indiana in a position to play Oregon once more in the Peach Bowl in an attempt to win the national championship. Cignetti highlighted the program's new identity, stating that the team is prepared for any stage and rejecting previous challenges.