When it comes to big-game experience and postseason pedigree, few programs can match what Alabama brings to the table. And if you ask former Crimson Tide defensive backs Pat Surtain II and Terrion Arnold, that edge in experience - along with a few timely takeaways - could be exactly what Alabama needs to get past No. 11 Indiana in the Rose Bowl.
Both Surtain and Arnold know what it takes to win at the highest level. They were key contributors on Alabama defenses that thrived under pressure, especially when the lights were brightest. Now starring on Sundays in the NFL, the two defenders haven’t forgotten what it means to play for the Tide - or what it takes to win a College Football Playoff game.
Ahead of Alabama’s latest postseason test, Arnold broke down what he believes are the two biggest keys to victory.
“I think it depends on two things,” Arnold said. “Number one, if we can establish the run.
And then number two, if we can pressure the quarterback and force a takeaway. If we can force one takeaway, we’ll be good.
If we can force two takeaways, we’ll win.”
That’s not just talk - it’s backed by the numbers. Alabama’s defense has been one of the most opportunistic in the country this season, forcing 20 turnovers over 14 games. That kind of production puts them among the top four remaining playoff defenses, trailing only Indiana, Texas Tech, and Miami in the turnover department.
Surtain echoed Arnold’s sentiment, pointing to Alabama’s big-game experience as a potential difference-maker against an Indiana team that’s still relatively new to the national stage.
“I like them boys winning,” Surtain said. “Turnovers is key.
In games like this, I feel like the score’s gonna be close, probably, but ‘Bama’s gonna find its way through. Indiana’s got a good football team, but I told people before, experience plays a high factor in games like this.
This is Indiana’s first rodeo in I don’t know how long, and ‘Bama been here before, so a lot could play into that.”
And he’s not wrong. This is only Indiana’s second-ever trip to the College Football Playoff - and just its second appearance in the Rose Bowl.
Alabama, on the other hand, is preparing for its 10th playoff game and ninth Rose Bowl matchup. That kind of history doesn’t guarantee a win, but it does give the Tide a mental edge - one that can matter when the pressure ramps up.
Arnold also turned his attention to Alabama’s offense, singling out two players who could be X-factors if they rise to the occasion: quarterback Ty Simpson and wide receiver Ryan Williams.
“My main thing too, I wanna see Ty go out there and just cut it loose, bro,” Arnold said. “And just addressing all the stuff with Ryan, people don’t understand that it’s a mental thing.
You already know how it is, Pat - coming in, playing early. Me and you obviously didn’t do what he did.
Coming in, being a phenom, then struggling with the ups and downs of pass catching. Everything is just mental.
I just really want to see him have a breakout game.”
It’s been a rollercoaster season for Simpson and Williams. While the connection hasn’t always been consistent - they’ve combined for just four touchdowns across 14 games - the flashes have been electric. Williams averaged a staggering 35.8 yards per touchdown catch, showing just how explosive this duo can be when they hit.
If Alabama can get that kind of production from Simpson and Williams, and the defense can do what it’s done all year by creating chaos and turnovers, then Surtain and Arnold’s confidence in the Tide might be more than just alumni pride - it might be spot on.
In a game that promises to be tight, physical, and full of playoff tension, Alabama’s experience, opportunistic defense, and high-ceiling offensive playmakers could be the combination that punches their ticket to yet another title shot.