Crain & Cone Indiana EMBARRASSES Alabama | College Football Playoff Rose Bowl INSTANT REACTION
Jan 6, 2026
The hosts react to Indiana's stunning 38-3 victory over Alabama in the Rose Bowl. They highlight Indiana's surgical efficiency and the strong culture under Coach Kirk Cignetti. Discussions cover Alabama's ineffective play-calling and reliance on one-dimensional strategies. The reaction also dives into Indiana's adjustments against Alabama's pressure and explores their potential as a national title contender, comparing them to top teams. Lastly, the legitimacy of Ty Simpson's role for Alabama is scrutinized, along with the team's overachievement concerns.
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Surgical, Team-First Efficiency
- Indiana's strength is surgical efficiency and flawless fundamentals that create a consistent identity on every play.
- Jake Crain says they maximize players' roles and rarely make mistakes, which amplifies collective performance.
Culture Over Flash
- Kirk Cignetti built a culture-first program where players buy into roles and play with consistent discipline.
- Blain Crain compares his sideline demeanor to Nick Saban and credits culture for Indiana's rapid rise.
Adjustments Cripple Alabama's Blitz
- Indiana's gameplan adjusts protections to neutralize Alabama's heavy blitz packages and then exploits single coverage downfield.
- Jake Crain credits smart in-game adjustments for opening Alabama's backfield holes and enabling the run game.