UPDATE: In a thrilling announcement, top-ranked Indiana will take on the winner of the upcoming College Football Playoff first-round game between Oklahoma and Alabama in the prestigious Rose Bowl on January 1, 2025. This historic matchup is set to kick off at 1 p.m. EST, an hour earlier than its traditional start time.
Fans are buzzing as Indiana, boasting an impressive 13-0 record, secured their spot after a nail-biting 13-10 victory over the defending national champions, Ohio State, in the Big Ten Championship Game. This victory marks Indiana’s first outright conference championship since 1945, a significant milestone in the program’s history.
The Hoosiers have made headlines not only for their remarkable season but also for earning the top ranking in both the College Football Playoff and Associated Press polls for the first time ever. Their journey to the Rose Bowl signifies a monumental transformation for Indiana, which last appeared in this premier event in 1968 when they faced USC.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma, seeded eighth in the College Football Playoff bracket, is set to host ninth-seeded Alabama on December 19 at Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma. This first-round clash will determine who moves on to face Indiana in the Rose Bowl.
The 112th annual Rose Bowl is not just a game; it serves as a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, heightening the stakes for all teams involved. The winner will advance to face the victor of the Orange Bowl, which features a matchup between Texas Tech and the winner of the James Madison-Oregon game.
This Rose Bowl appearance represents a significant achievement for the Indiana football program and its fans, especially after the long wait since their last appearance. With the excitement building, fans are eager to see if Indiana can capitalize on their historic ranking and championship title.
As the date approaches, all eyes will be on the College Football Playoff matchups, especially the Oklahoma vs. Alabama game, which promises to deliver fireworks and set the stage for an unforgettable Rose Bowl showdown. Fans and analysts alike are anticipating a thrilling start to the New Year in Pasadena.
Stay tuned for updates as the playoff unfolds and the teams prepare for this monumental clash in college football history.
