Where to watch Alabama vs. Indiana: Live stream, TV channel and time for CFP Rose Bowl game
Historically, it is difficult to find a stricter contract in the College Football Playoffs quarterfinals than you will see in the Rose Bowl quarterfinals. No. 9 Alabama has a strong case as the most successful college football program of all time, ranking first in all-time wins, national titles, Heisman winners, bowl victories and conference titles. On the other side, you have Indiana, outside the all-time top 100 wins list and fresh out of its first all-time conference title since 1945.
Alabama is leaving a spectacular victory in the first round of the CFP against Oklahoma. The Crimson Tide trailed by 17 points in the first half before rallying for a 34-24 victory, becoming the first team to win a road game in the 12-team CFP format.
Indiana is making its second straight CFP appearance and will play in the quarterfinals for the first time in program history. The Hoosiers lost to Notre Dame in the first round last season, but went 13-0 this year and beat Ohio State in the Big Ten championship game to earn the Rose Bowl berth.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Rose Bowl.
Where to watch Alabama vs. Indiana live
Date: Thursday January 1st | Time: 4 p.m. ET
Location: Rose Bowl — Pasadena, California.
TV: ABC | Live broadcast: fubo (Try for free)
Alabama vs. Indiana: Players to Watch at the Rose Bowl
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama: Simpson is coming off one of his best performances in weeks after leading Alabama to a dramatic victory over Oklahoma. He completed 19 of 29 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns as the Crimson Tide erased a 17-point first-half deficit. Simpson enters the Rose Bowl having totaled 3,500 yards and 28 touchdowns against five interceptions. For Alabama to be successful, the offense will need him at his best.
Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama: Williams has been one of the most confusing players in college football this season. After an outstanding freshman campaign, his production has been inconsistent. He has recorded two or fewer receptions in each of his last four games, including a one-catch, five-yard outing against Oklahoma. The Rose Bowl would be an ideal stage for Williams to rediscover his big-game form.
Bray Hubbard, DB, Alabama: Hubbard has been one of Alabama’s most reliable defenders this season. He finished with five tackles against Oklahoma in the first round of the CFP. On the year, Hubbard totaled 66 tackles (40 solo), three forced fumbles and four interceptions. Alabama’s defense will be under the spotlight against Indiana’s powerful offense.
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana: Mendoza transferred from Cal this offseason and immediately elevated Indiana’s offense. In 13 games, he completed 71.5% of his passes for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns and six interceptions. Known for his accuracy, Mendoza threw for 222 yards and a touchdown against Ohio State in the Big Ten championship game, a performance that effectively sealed the Heisman Trophy.
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana: Indiana has several receivers capable of stretching the field, and Cooper has been the most productive. He led the team with 58 receptions and 804 receiving yards and was second with 11 touchdowns, behind Elijah Sarratt.
Rolijah Hardy, LB, Indiana: Indiana ranked second nationally in total yards allowed and points per game, and Hardy was a central figure in that success. He leads the Hoosiers with 87 tackles and eight sacks and has added four assists this season.
Alabama vs. Oklahoma Prediction, Picks
Last year, the Rose Bowl produced one of the biggest shocks of the entire football season. No. 1 seed Oregon was stunned by Ohio State after finishing the regular season with a perfect record. I’m not saying it will happen, but I expect this match to be competitive. Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer has proven he can lead his respective teams to victories against ranked opponents. Indiana wins, but it will be a one-score game. Pick: Alabama +6.5 (-102)
