Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban discusses the Texas Tech football game vs. BYU on College GameDay, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.
The Indiana Hoosiers enter the Rose Bowl as the top seed in the College Football Playoff, facing the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide on December 30, 2025. This season marks a historic achievement for Indiana, which is currently undefeated at 13-0, securing its first Associated Press No. 1 ranking in program history and winning its first Big Ten Championship since 1967. Despite these accomplishments, some fans remain skeptical of Indiana’s status as a football powerhouse.
Head coach Curt Cignetti has led the Hoosiers through a remarkable transformation, especially given their historical struggles. Indiana began the 2025 season with the most losses in college football history, but it has since turned its fortunes around. Nick Saban, the Hall of Fame coach with seven national championships, has expressed disappointment over the lack of respect shown to Indiana. During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Saban remarked that many outside of Indiana do not appreciate the team’s achievements.
“In the outside world, away from Indiana, people still don’t have the proper respect for Indiana,” Saban stated. He emphasized that, while Alabama respects their upcoming opponent, fan perceptions often lack depth. “Fans, they don’t look at the game from a technical standpoint like we all do.”
Despite leading the nation in several statistical categories, including allowing only 11.8 points per game and scoring 39.3 points per game, Indiana faces a challenge in winning over the broader college football audience. The Hoosiers have shown remarkable discipline on the field, committing only eight turnovers throughout the season and accumulating just 49 penalties. This discipline has been a significant factor in their success under Cignetti’s leadership.
Indiana’s offense is spearheaded by Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, and their defense is equally formidable. The Hoosiers’ ability to protect the football and limit mistakes has positioned them as a strong contender against Alabama, which has faced its own struggles. The Crimson Tide recently overcame a 17-point deficit in their first playoff game against No. 8 Oklahoma, showcasing their resilience.
Adding to Indiana’s optimism is the health status of leading receiver Omar Cooper Jr., who is expected to be available for the Rose Bowl despite a lower-body injury sustained in the Big Ten title game. This news presents another hurdle for Alabama, as Cooper’s presence on the field could significantly impact the game.
While Indiana’s rise to the top has been impressive, the Hoosiers still face skepticism from some fans. Historically, they would have been dismissed as underdogs against a team like Alabama. Yet, their performance this season has proven they are deserving of their No. 1 ranking and the chance to further establish their credibility on the national stage.
The upcoming Rose Bowl offers Indiana a platform to solidify its place in college football history. With a chance to complete what could be seen as one of the greatest turnarounds in the sport, the Hoosiers are poised to showcase their talent and earn the respect that many fans have yet to acknowledge.
