Game Details and Schedule
The 2026 Rose Bowl kicks off at 1:00 p.m. PST (4:00 p.m. ET) on January 1, 2026, broadcast live on ESPN from the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena. This CFP quarterfinal follows the first-round games, with the opponent determined by today's Alabama vs. Oklahoma result.
Indiana enters as the top seed after a dominant regular season, while the Bama/OU winner brings SEC or Big 12 firepower. The game's outcome sends the victor to the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl semifinal on January 8.
Viewers can expect classic Rose Bowl pageantry, including the Tournament of Roses Parade earlier that day, blending tradition with modern playoff intensity.
Teams and Matchup History
Indiana Hoosiers make their second Rose Bowl appearance, first since 1968. This No. 1 seed has surprised the nation with playoff qualification, led by a potent offense and stout defense.
Alabama Crimson Tide or Oklahoma Sooners await. A Bama win means Indiana's first-ever meeting with the Tide; an OU victory revives a rare rivalry last seen in 1928. Both contenders boast storied programs hungry for playoff advancement.
Key storylines include Indiana's underdog narrative against powerhouse opposition, with stakes elevated by the path to the January 19 national championship in Miami.
Role in College Football Playoff
This Rose Bowl serves as 'Quarterfinal' in the 12-team CFP, one of four games alongside Orange, Sugar, and Cotton Bowls. Winners advance to semifinals in Fiesta and Peach Bowls.
The expanded format, debuting this season, amplifies the Rose Bowl's significance, drawing massive audiences and testing top teams early. Today's first-round results, including Bama/OU, shape the bracket.
Post-game, the focus shifts to semifinal prep, with the ultimate goal of the championship at Hard Rock Stadium.