In the run-up to the much-hyped Rose Bowl, Indiana coach Curt Cignetti had plenty to say about Alabama’s recent win over Oklahoma. Cignetti, who once coached with the Crimson Tide, has poured over Alabama game tape and knows exactly what his top-ranked Hoosiers are up against.
This post dives into Cignetti’s takes and the looming battle between No. 9 Alabama and No. 1 Indiana. This one’s for a ticket to the College Football Playoff semifinals—stakes couldn’t be higher.
Indiana Coach Curt Cignetti’s Analysis of Alabama
Cignetti’s not new to Alabama. He coached their receivers from 2007 to 2010 and has kept a close watch on the team ever since. It’s fair to say he understands the Crimson Tide’s playbook better than most.
Cignetti’s Film Study
*I’m a film junkie*, Cignetti confessed, and you can tell he means it. He’s clocked hours watching Alabama’s games, especially their big win over Georgia in Athens.
Cignetti’s also a fan of coach Kalen DeBoer’s offensive style, following his work since DeBoer was at Washington. There’s a bit of professional admiration there, even if they’re about to clash on the field.
Observations from the Oklahoma Game
Alabama’s comeback against Oklahoma really caught Cignetti’s eye. *In terms of the Oklahoma game, that was a tremendous comeback on the road in a hostile environment*, he said, sounding genuinely impressed.
Coming back from 17 down on the road? That takes guts. Cignetti gave Alabama credit for being well-coached and loaded with talent—a real handful for Indiana.
The Road to the Rose Bowl
Indiana’s been on a tear, racking up a 24-2 record in the last two years under Cignetti. The Rose Bowl on January 1 is set to be a real test, with the winner heading to the Peach Bowl semifinals on January 9.
Indiana’s Journey
Cignetti’s time at Indiana has been nothing short of remarkable. He’s quick to mention his experience at Alabama, learning from Nick Saban, and how much it shaped his approach.
*We had a great experience at Alabama*, Cignetti recalled. You get the sense those years still mean a lot to him, even now.
Key Players to Watch
There’s no shortage of talent on either side. Alabama’s got depth and poise, always seeming to rise to the occasion.
Indiana’s no slouch either—steady, skilled, and not likely to back down when things get tough.
- Alabama’s Strengths: Resilience, skilled players, strong coaching
- Indiana’s Strengths: Consistency, strategic gameplay, experienced coaching
Looking Ahead to the Rose Bowl
This Rose Bowl feels like it could go either way. Alabama’s got that grit, Indiana brings brains and balance—should be a heck of a game.
Cignetti’s prepping his squad with every bit of insight he can muster. If you’re a fan of high-stakes football, this one’s not to be missed.
Game Details
The Rose Bowl kicks off on Thursday, January 1, at 3 p.m. CT. It’ll be broadcast on ESPN.
There’s a lot riding on this one. The winner moves on to the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Peach Bowl on January 9.
Honestly, both teams are coming in sharp and ready, so it’s shaping up to be a real showdown. Fans are in for a treat—expect a game that won’t be decided easily.
If you want more details or just can’t get enough updates before the Rose Bowl, the full article is over at AL.com.
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