Overview
- Indiana’s 35-point margin handed Alabama its most lopsided postseason defeat, as the Crimson Tide managed just 193 total yards and 23 rushing yards.
- Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza went 14-of-16 for 192 yards and three touchdowns, guiding the Hoosiers after a scoreless first quarter.
- Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson exited with a cracked rib after a fumble; backup Austin Mack entered in the third quarter and went 11-of-16 for 103 yards.
- Kalen DeBoer’s failed fourth-and-1 call from his own 34 early in the second quarter set up Indiana’s first touchdown, a decision he later termed the wrong one.
- Indiana moves on to face No. 5 Oregon in the Peach Bowl semifinal on Jan. 9, while Alabama closes a second straight four-loss season as broadcasters labeled the showing embarrassing.