Indiana’s blowout win over Alabama set new CFP ratings record, per ESPN
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
Indiana’s convincing 38-3 victory vs. Alabama in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals was a ratings monster.
According to ESPN, the Rose Bowl matchup set a new CFP ratings record with 23.9 million viewers. The second-highest rated CFP quarterfinal this season was Miami’s victory vs. defending national champion Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, with 19 million viewers.
It also served as the highest-rated CFP game of the 12-team era and was more widely viewed than 18 of the previous 22 CFP semifinal games:
The peak amount of viewers for Indiana vs. Alabama was 23.9 million. The Rose Bowl saw a 13 percent year-over-year increase compared to the 2025 edition featuring Ohio State and Oregon, per ESPN.
Heisman Trophy quarterback Fernando Mendoza completed 14 of his 16 passes for 192 yards, 3 touchdowns, and no interceptions with a 96.7 QBR in the victory. Mendoza tossed his touchdowns to Charlie Becker, Omar Cooper Jr., and Elijah Sarratt.
Indiana was also dominant rushing the ball. Kaelon Black (99 yards, touchdown) and Roman Hemby (89 yards, touchdown) led the way as Indiana rushed for 215 yards.
Meanwhile, Indiana’s defense limited Alabama to 193 total yards and 3-for-11 on third downs.
Despite the blowout, reaching the CFP was an improvement for Alabama, which won 2 more games than during Kalen DeBoer‘s first season at the helm. Undefeated Indiana takes on Oregon next in the CFP semifinals at the Peach Bowl.
