In the minds of many Alabama Crimson Tide fans, Kalen DeBoer and his team have already accomplished what had to be done in the 2025 season. After last season's limping finish and failing to make the Playoff field, Alabama had to make the Playoff and win a game.
It took the greatest comeback in Playoff history, but the Crimson Tide delivered. Alabama fans are now warming to the idea that knocking off college football's No. 1 team is possible.
Before the playoffs' first-round games, The Athletic polled fans of the 12 participating teams. The fans were asked, "What would be a successful CFP for your team?" Options for answers were: Happy to be here; Win a game; Make the title game; and Win it all. The smallest group of Alabama fans (4.7%) chose Happy to be here. Next at 9.5% was Win it all. 'Make the title game' was the choice of 19% of Alabama fans. By far the largest group, at 66.7%, chose 'Win a game.'
Assuming the poll sample was large enough to reflect the attitudes of the Alabama football fanbase, a Rose Bowl loss would not make the 2025 season a perceived failure. Alabama coaches, players and staff no doubt hold themselves to a higher standard of success. They will be fully committed to beating Indiana.
The largest segment of Indiana fans (39%) chose 'Make the title game', followed by 30.8% for 'Win a game', and 23.6% for 'Win it all.'
Alabama Crimson Tide has less pressure than Indiana
Based on the poll, a larger percentage of Indiana fans will be negative about a Rose Bowl loss than Alabama fans will be if the Crimson Tide loses. No doubt Alabama fan perspective will change if a loss in the Rose Bowl resembles the SEC Championship Game.
The perceptions of fans may have zero bearing on the game. However, the response of fans will impact perceptions of each program's future success. Given current expectations, the Indiana team will play the game under a heavier weight of pressure than the Crimson Tide. If so, and if Alabama jumps out to a lead, one team will feel the weight of a monkey on its back. That will be the Hoosiers.