Pasadena, CA – College football fans across the nation are gearing up for a highly anticipated Rose Bowl showdown as the Alabama Crimson Tide prepare to face off against the Indiana Hoosiers in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup on New Year's Day, 2026. The game, steeped in tradition and boasting significant national championship implications, promises to be a must-watch event.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (2:00 PM Pacific Time) on January 1, 2026, from the iconic Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena, California. Millions are expected to tune in to witness the clash between these two powerhouse programs.
For those looking to catch the action from the comfort of their homes, the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. Veteran play-by-play announcer Chris Fowler will be leading the broadcast, providing expert analysis and commentary alongside Kirk Herbstreit. ESPN's extensive pre- and post-game coverage will provide further insights and analysis of the game.
Cord-cutters also have several options to stream the game live. ESPN’s streaming service, ESPN+, will carry the broadcast. Subscribers to other streaming services that include ESPN in their channel lineup, such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV, will also be able to access the game.
Alabama enters the Rose Bowl as the favorite, boasting a stellar regular season record and a reputation for championship pedigree. The Crimson Tide, under the guidance of Coach Kalen DeBoer, are looking to continue their dominance and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals. Their potent offense, led by Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Jalen Milroe and a stable of talented running backs, presents a formidable challenge for any defense.
However, the Indiana Hoosiers, coached by Curt Cignetti, are not to be underestimated. Despite being considered underdogs, they have proven their ability to compete with the nation’s elite. Indiana’s defense, known for its aggressive style and ability to force turnovers, will be key to their success. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke, known for his arm talent and football IQ, will need to be at his best to lead the Hoosiers’ offense against the Crimson Tide’s defense.
This year’s Rose Bowl marks only the second time these two programs have met on the gridiron. Their previous encounter was in 1986, where Alabama emerged victorious.
The Rose Bowl’s rich history and tradition add another layer of excitement to this already highly anticipated matchup. Known as "The Granddaddy of Them All," the Rose Bowl has been a fixture of college football for over a century, showcasing some of the sport's most memorable moments.
Fans attending the game in person can expect a vibrant and festive atmosphere, complete with pre-game tailgates, the iconic Rose Parade, and the pageantry of the Rose Bowl ceremony. Tickets for the game are highly sought after and can be purchased through various online ticketing platforms, though prices are expected to be substantial.
This College Football Playoff quarterfinal between Alabama and Indiana is more than just a game; it's a clash of styles, a test of wills, and an opportunity for these two programs to etch their names into college football history. Whether you're watching from the stands or from your living room, be sure to tune in and witness what promises to be an unforgettable Rose Bowl experience. The stakes are high, the atmosphere is electric, and the nation will be watching as these two teams battle for a chance at college football immortality.
