Alabama Rallies Past Top-Seeded Hoosiers to Reach Semifinals

The Crimson Tide staged an impressive comeback in the 2026 College Football Playoff quarterfinals, downing top-seeded Indiana 34-31 at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. Trailing 24-20 with just over two minutes remaining, Alabama’s quarterback led a game-winning drive that culminated in a 10-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver. The decisive score sparked jubilation among the Crimson Tide faithful, as Alabama celebrated its latest dramatic victory in the College Football Playoff. Indiana quarterback made several crucial plays down the stretch, including a fourth-quarter touchdown run that had given the Hoosiers their largest lead of the game. However, Alabama’s defense stiffened, holding Indiana without a score over the final minutes to seal the win. The win marked Alabama’s 15th all-time semifinal appearance and sets up a rematch against either Clemson or Notre Dame in next week’s College Football Playoff Semifinals.