Rose Bowl
2026
The Granddaddy of Them All kicks off in…
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2026 Rose Bowl: #1 Indiana vs #9 Alabama – CFP Quarterfinal
The 2026 Rose Bowl delivers one of the most compelling matchups in the storied game's 112-year history: undefeated #1 Indiana Hoosiers versus the surging #9 Alabama Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal. This New Year's Day showdown at iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California features the nation's top seed against college football's most decorated program—and remarkably, it's the first-ever meeting between these two schools.
Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM PT / 4:00 PM ET on Thursday, January 1, 2026, broadcast live on ESPN. The winner advances to the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl semifinal on January 9th. With Indiana making just its second Rose Bowl appearance in history and Alabama riding momentum from an epic comeback victory, demand for Rose Bowl 2026 tickets is extraordinary.
What Is the Rose Bowl Game?
The Rose Bowl Game, officially known as "The Granddaddy of Them All," is the oldest bowl game in college football history, first played in 1902. Held annually at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, the game has hosted some of the sport's most memorable moments. The stadium's breathtaking setting beneath the San Gabriel Mountains provides an unmatched backdrop for New Year's Day football. Under the current 12-team College Football Playoff format, the Rose Bowl serves as one of the quarterfinal host sites, elevating its already legendary status.
Indiana Hoosiers: Historic Season, #1 Seed
The Indiana Hoosiers enter the Rose Bowl as the nation's only undefeated team at 13-0, having completed one of the most stunning transformations in college football history. Under second-year head coach Curt Cignetti, Indiana captured its first Big Ten Championship since 1967 with a 13-10 victory over Ohio State and secured the CFP's #1 overall seed.
Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza leads the nation's fourth-ranked scoring offense at 41.9 points per game. The Hoosiers also boast the fifth-ranked scoring defense, allowing just 10.8 points per contest. Key playmakers include second-team All-Big Ten receivers Omar Cooper Jr. and Elijah Sarratt, breakout sophomore Charlie Becker, and tight end Riley Nowakowski.
This marks just Indiana's second Rose Bowl appearance ever—their first since losing to USC in the 1968 game.
Alabama Crimson Tide: Comeback Kings Head West
The Alabama Crimson Tide punched their ticket to Pasadena with a remarkable 34-24 comeback victory over Oklahoma in the CFP First Round. Trailing 17-0 midway through the second quarter, Alabama scored 34 of the game's final 41 points to become the first team in the CFP's on-campus era to win a playoff game on the road.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer—who served as Indiana's offensive coordinator in 2019—leads an 11-3 squad featuring quarterback Ty Simpson and playmaking cornerback Zabien Brown, whose pick-sixes have changed the complexion of multiple games this season. This is Alabama's 10th Rose Bowl appearance and continues their record-setting playoff legacy.
Coaching Connections Add Intrigue
The 2026 Rose Bowl features fascinating coaching connections between these programs:
- Kalen DeBoer (Alabama HC) – Indiana's offensive coordinator in 2019
- Kane Wommack (Alabama DC) – Indiana's DC and linebackers coach 2019-20
- Nick Sheridan (Alabama co-OC) – Five years at Indiana, 2017-21
- Curt Cignetti (Indiana HC) – Alabama's WR coach under Nick Saban, 2007-11
Why This Rose Bowl Matters
The stakes couldn't be higher for this CFP Quarterfinal:
- First-ever meeting between Alabama and Indiana football programs
- Unprecedented matchup – The nation's #1 seed vs. a storied SEC powerhouse
- Semifinal berth – Winner advances to Peach Bowl on January 9th
- Historic opportunity – Indiana's chance to cement its remarkable rise
- Redemption story – Alabama proving doubters wrong after rocky stretch
Rose Bowl Stadium: The Perfect Setting
Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena provides one of sports' most iconic venues for this CFP Quarterfinal showdown. The 90,000+ seat stadium sits in the Arroyo Seco beneath the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a stunning backdrop for New Year's Day football. First opened in 1922, the stadium has hosted five Super Bowls, the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final, and countless memorable college football games.
Game day festivities begin early with parking lots opening at 4:00 AM PT for tailgating. FanFest activities start at 8:00 AM PT, and stadium gates open at 10:30 AM PT. The pre-game atmosphere at the Rose Bowl is legendary, making early arrival highly recommended.
Getting Rose Bowl 2026 Tickets
With the historic #1 Indiana vs #9 Alabama matchup confirmed, demand for Rose Bowl 2026 tickets is exceptional. As a trusted ticket marketplace operating for over 20 years, we connect fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. All transactions are processed securely with buyer protection, and our upfront pricing includes all fees—no hidden surprises at checkout.
Whether you're an Indiana fan witnessing your program's crowning moment, an Alabama faithful following the Tide to Pasadena, or a college football enthusiast wanting to experience The Granddaddy of Them All, this game promises an unforgettable New Year's Day experience.
Quick Answers: Rose Bowl 2026
Who plays in the 2026 Rose Bowl? #1 Indiana Hoosiers vs #9 Alabama Crimson Tide in the CFP Quarterfinal.
When is the 2026 Rose Bowl? Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM PT / 4:00 PM ET.
Where is the Rose Bowl played? Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California.
What channel broadcasts the Rose Bowl? ESPN.
How to Prepare for the Rose Bowl
Planning your Rose Bowl experience requires attention to several details:
- Secure tickets early – High-demand matchups sell quickly on the resale market
- Book accommodations – Pasadena hotels fill up rapidly for New Year's Day
- Plan transportation – Consider shuttles from area hotels or public transit options
- Arrive early – Parking opens at 4:00 AM PT for tailgating and early festivities
- Check weather – January in Pasadena is typically mild but prepare for any conditions
- Review stadium policies – Clear bag policies and prohibited items apply
Frequently Asked Questions About Rose Bowl 2026
Who is playing in the 2026 Rose Bowl?
The 2026 Rose Bowl features the #1 Indiana Hoosiers versus the #9 Alabama Crimson Tide in a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal matchup. Indiana earned the top seed after winning the Big Ten Championship with a 13-0 record, while Alabama advanced by defeating Oklahoma 34-24 in the CFP First Round. This is the first-ever meeting between these two programs.
When is the 2026 Rose Bowl?
The 2026 Rose Bowl kicks off on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM Pacific Time (4:00 PM Eastern Time). The start time is one hour earlier than traditional Rose Bowl kickoffs, a change expected to continue for future games. Pre-game festivities begin at 12:00 PM PT.
Where is the Rose Bowl Stadium located?
Rose Bowl Stadium is located at 1001 Rose Bowl Drive in Pasadena, California, approximately 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. The stadium sits in the Arroyo Seco, surrounded by the San Gabriel Mountains, providing one of the most scenic settings in all of sports.
What channel is the Rose Bowl on?
The 2026 Rose Bowl will be broadcast live on ESPN. As a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal game, it receives comprehensive national coverage. The game will also be available on the ESPN app and ESPN+ with a valid cable or streaming subscription.
How much are Rose Bowl 2026 tickets?
Rose Bowl 2026 ticket prices vary based on section location, row position, and market demand. Tickets typically range from the $300s for upper endzone sections to $3,000+ for premium midfield seats. Prices fluctuate as game day approaches based on demand and availability. Our marketplace offers competitive pricing with all fees included upfront.
What is Indiana's Rose Bowl history?
The 2026 Rose Bowl marks just Indiana's second appearance in The Granddaddy of Them All. Their only previous Rose Bowl was following the 1967 season, when the Hoosiers lost to the USC Trojans. Indiana won the Big Ten Championship that year—their first conference title since then came in 2025, earning this return trip to Pasadena.
What is Alabama's Rose Bowl history?
The 2026 game marks Alabama's 10th Rose Bowl appearance. The Crimson Tide have a rich bowl history with 80 postseason appearances overall—more than any program in college football. Alabama has made 15 College Football Playoff appearances since the format began, demonstrating their consistent presence among the nation's elite.
Who is Indiana's quarterback?
Fernando Mendoza is Indiana's starting quarterback and the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner. Mendoza has led the Hoosiers' dynamic offense to the nation's fourth-best scoring output at 41.9 points per game. His clutch performances in key games, including the Big Ten Championship, have defined Indiana's historic season.
Who is Alabama's head coach?
Kalen DeBoer is Alabama's head coach in his second season with the program. Notably, DeBoer served as Indiana's offensive coordinator in 2019, creating a compelling storyline for this Rose Bowl matchup. Before Alabama, DeBoer led Washington to the 2024 CFP National Championship game.
What happens if you win the Rose Bowl?
The winner of the 2026 Rose Bowl advances to the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in Atlanta on January 9, 2026. There, they will face the winner from the other side of the bracket. The semifinal winners then compete for the CFP National Championship on January 19, 2026.
When do Rose Bowl Stadium gates open?
Rose Bowl Stadium gates open at 10:30 AM PT on game day, January 1, 2026. Parking lots open much earlier at 4:00 AM PT for tailgating, and FanFest activities begin at 8:00 AM PT. Arriving early is strongly recommended to fully experience the Rose Bowl atmosphere and avoid traffic congestion.
Is there parking at Rose Bowl Stadium?
Yes, Rose Bowl Stadium offers extensive parking in surrounding lots and golf course areas. Parking typically requires advance purchase and opens at 4:00 AM PT on game day. Many fans prefer shuttle services from area hotels or park-and-ride locations. Check the Tournament of Roses official website for current parking information and pricing.
What should I bring to the Rose Bowl?
Rose Bowl Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Approved bags include clear plastic bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" and small clutch purses no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". Bring sunscreen (January in Pasadena can be sunny), layers for temperature changes, and your mobile device for digital tickets. Outside food and beverages are prohibited.
Can I get a refund if the Rose Bowl is cancelled?
If the Rose Bowl is cancelled and not rescheduled, our buyer protection policy ensures you receive a full refund. For rescheduled games, tickets typically remain valid for the new date. Contact our customer service team with any concerns regarding your ticket purchase.
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Pasadena, California 91103