Alabama Eyes Rose Bowl Showdown with Top-Ranked Indiana After Gritty Comeback Win
Alabama’s road to the College Football Playoff semifinals didn’t come easy-but it came with a statement. Down 17-0 early against Oklahoma in Norman, the Crimson Tide dug deep, storming back to win 34-24 and punch their ticket to the Rose Bowl. Now, the challenge gets even steeper.
Next up? A New Year’s Day clash with undefeated Indiana, the No. 1 team in the country and reigning Big Ten champions.
The Hoosiers are fresh off a win over then-No. 1 Ohio State in the conference title game, and they’re coming into Pasadena with momentum and a Heisman winner under center.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer met with reporters in Tuscaloosa on Monday to talk about the upcoming showdown, reflect on the Oklahoma win, and offer some insight into what makes this Crimson Tide team tick as it prepares for its biggest game yet.
DeBoer on the Rose Bowl Opportunity
There’s no hiding the excitement in DeBoer’s voice when he talks about the Rose Bowl. It’s not just another game-it’s the game. And for the 15 California natives on Alabama’s roster, it’s a homecoming with major stakes.
“This is a special opportunity,” DeBoer said, noting how meaningful the Pasadena setting is for so many players on the roster. “There’s a lot of pride in playing in this game, and our guys are fired up.”
Respect for Indiana’s Rise
DeBoer didn’t shy away from praising what Curt Cignetti has built at Indiana. The Hoosiers have gone from middle-of-the-pack to national powerhouse, and DeBoer-who spent time on staff in Bloomington-has seen that transformation up close.
He highlighted the program’s growth since his time there and credited Cignetti for getting the entire university and fan base to buy in. “You can see it in how they play,” DeBoer said. “They’re all-in.”
One area that’s caught his eye? Indiana’s offensive line. DeBoer emphasized how cohesive the unit looks on film and pointed to the Heisman-winning play of quarterback Fernando Mendoza as a direct result of that synergy.
“That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident,” he said. “They complement each other really well.”
Alabama’s Health and Preparation
Coming off a physical battle with Oklahoma, Alabama’s injury report is being closely monitored-but there’s optimism. Defensive lineman Tim Keenan is “a little sore,” according to DeBoer, but is expected to be ready. Red Morgan is in a similar spot, while LT Overton remains a question mark as the staff continues to evaluate his status.
With no school in session, Alabama has been able to zero in on prep for Indiana. DeBoer praised the team’s focus leading up to the Oklahoma game and said the current stretch gives them a chance to fine-tune everything without distractions.
The Turning Point in Norman
When Alabama’s offense opened the game with three straight three-and-outs, things looked bleak. But everything changed on the fourth drive, and DeBoer pointed to one play in particular: Ty Simpson’s third-down strike to Lotzeir Brooks.
“That throw really got him going,” DeBoer said. “It sparked something.”
From there, the Tide offense found its rhythm. DeBoer credited a series of quick passes that helped Simpson settle in, and the offensive line’s protection allowed the sophomore quarterback to operate with confidence.
Brooks, who caught his first career touchdowns in the game, earned special recognition from DeBoer. “I was surprised to hear those were his first,” the coach said. “He’s made so many big plays for us this season.”
Defensive Adjustments and Second-Half Surge
Alabama’s defense had its own turning point after halftime. DeBoer praised the adjustments made by the staff, particularly the push to generate more pressure on Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer. That shift helped flip the momentum and gave the offense a chance to claw back into the game.
He also highlighted the discipline of the defensive line, saying that when they play within their responsibilities, everything else tends to fall into place.
Bray Hubbard’s Leadership and Growth
One of the unsung leaders of this Alabama squad? Safety Bray Hubbard. DeBoer shared that Hubbard was frustrated with his Week 1 performance against Florida State, but instead of sulking, he went to work.
“He’s been a leader for us all year,” DeBoer said. “His work ethic sets the tone.”
Familiar Faces and Shared History
DeBoer was asked about his past working relationships with people now in the Indiana program, including Kane Wommack. He had nothing but praise for Wommack’s team-first mentality during their time together in Bloomington, saying he was always willing to collaborate and improve the program as a whole.
Daniel Hill’s Big Run and What It Revealed
Another key moment in the Oklahoma game came courtesy of running back Daniel Hill, whose long second-half run helped swing momentum. DeBoer broke down the play, noting Hill’s vision and ability to break a tackle, but also pointed out something bigger: Alabama had been one block away from several explosive runs all game.
“That one finally hit,” he said. “And it gave us the jolt we needed.”
Lessons from Oklahoma and Georgia
When asked how facing stout run defenses like Oklahoma and Georgia might help prepare for Indiana, DeBoer pointed to one key area: avoiding negative plays. He emphasized that Indiana’s defense is aggressive and excels at shedding blocks, so the Tide will need to be sharp up front and stay ahead of the chains.
The Advantage of Already Playing a Playoff Game
There’s value in experience, and DeBoer believes Alabama’s first-round win could pay dividends. Playing a high-stakes game on the road and coming out with a win has helped sharpen the team’s edge.
“As long as you come out healthy, having that moment under your belt is a big deal,” he said.
Portal Talk and Team Culture
With the transfer portal set to open the day after the Rose Bowl, DeBoer was asked how Alabama is handling potential roster movement. His answer pointed to the culture he’s tried to build-one rooted in trust and transparency.
“We’ve built strong enough relationships that we can be up front with each other,” he said.
What’s Next
Alabama isn’t the favorite heading into Pasadena, but if there’s one thing this team proved in Norman, it’s that they’re not afraid of a fight. With a resilient quarterback, a defense that adjusts on the fly, and a coaching staff that knows how to push the right buttons, the Crimson Tide are very much alive in this playoff race.
And come January 1, they’ll get their shot at the nation’s top team-with the Rose Bowl spotlight shining bright.