Overview
- Indiana enters 13-0 as the Big Ten champion with Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and a top-tier scoring defense.
- Alabama advanced after rallying from 17 points down to beat Oklahoma, drawing praise from Indiana coach Curt Cignetti for its resolve.
- Defensive lineman Stephen Daley has been reported out for the season after a postgame injury following the Big Ten title win, with Cignetti expressing confidence in coordinator Bryant Haines to adjust.
- BetMGM lists Indiana as a 7-point favorite and ESPN’s model gives the Hoosiers a 71.4% win probability for the Rose Bowl quarterfinal.
- ESPN analysts say Alabama must start faster and show some run threat after averaging about 110 rushing yards per game, as attention turns to key Tide contributors highlighted by local outlets.