I’m a Hoosier. Typically, I don’t even watch football, but I was raised on Indiana University sports. It was a big family pastime — something I still feel in my bones even if a lot of time has passed between viewing games.
This Indiana football team has been exceptional all season, so the win itself wasn’t a total shock if you’ve been paying attention. And still, if someone had imagined Indiana in the Rose Bowl five, ten, or even twenty years ago — let alone winning it — it would’ve sounded like a pipe dream. Too many losses over decades.
I watched yesterday’s game, and I felt joy.
If we’re looking for an excellent symbol at the start of 2026, Indiana winning the Rose Bowl is a great one.
Here’s to all the underdogs who learned how great they can be.
— Renee Roederer
Smuggling Grace 