The 2024 Rose Bowl Game was a thrilling face-off between the University of Michigan Wolverines and University of Alabama Crimson Tide, and was complemented by a B-2 Stealth Bomber flyover, a tradition in its own right. With clear skies and perfect Southern California New Year's Day weather, West Coast Aerial Photography, Inc. was above the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, photographing the festivities from the skies.
Stealth Bomber Flyover
The Rose Bowl is more than a football game; it’s a confluence of technology, tradition, and talent. In 2024, the United States Air Force confirmed the return of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber flyover, a long-awaited spectacle that had been absent the previous year due to inspections and the grounding of the B-2 fleet following a hard landing incident. As the Rose Bowl stadium gates opened on New Year’s Day and at the conclusion of the National Anthem, a B-2 Spirit bomber soared across the sky, marking an auspicious start to the game.
This magnificent aircraft, operated by the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri has been an annual feature of the Rose Bowl since 2005. The 2024 Rose Bowl Game celebrated its much-anticipated return, heightening the thrill of the college football playoff semifinal.
A B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber flies into the horizon after completing a successful flyover at the Rose Bowl Game in Pasadena, California
Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit
Manufactured by both Northrop Corporation and Northrop Grumman, the B-2 Spirit is an American heavy strategic bomber fitted with stealth technology and is designed to bypass anti-aircraft defenses. With a total of 21 units built, the B-2 Spirit has been a part of many Rose Bowl festivities, adding an element of awe and admiration to an already momentous event.
The Goodyear Blimp photobombing the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California on New Year's Day, hours before the start of the highly anticipated 2024 Rose Bowl Game.
The Stage is Set: Michigan vs. Alabama in the 2024 Rose Bowl Game
As the B-2 Spirit disappeared into the sky, the real action was ready to begin in the Rose Bowl stadium. The stage was set for an electrifying match between the Michigan Wolverines and the Alabama Crimson Tide in a college football playoff semifinal, following both teams impressive performances this season. The clash of these titans was the highlight of the 2024 Rose Bowl, with Michigan emerging victorious, scoring 27 against Alabama’s 20, scoring a winning touchdown in overtime. This win paved the way for the Wolverines to advance to the national championship game.
Aerial photo of the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California on New Year's Day shortly before the start of the 2024 Rose Bowl Game, featuring the top-ranked Michigan Wolverines and Alabama Crimson Tide college football teams.
Michigan's Road to the Rose Bowl
The Michigan Wolverines didn’t simply land their spot in the Rose Bowl; they rightfully earned it through a perfect season, securing a hat-trick of Big Ten titles and scoring a three-in-a-row victory against their arch-rival, Ohio State. This marked a significant moment in Michigan’s program history, paving the way for their participation in the 2024 Rose Bowl.
The iconic Million Dollar Band from the University of Alabama forms an giant letter 'A' on the well-manicured Rose Bowl Stadium field in Pasadena, California, just before the start of the highly anticipated 2024 Rose Bowl Game.
Alabama's Journey to Pasadena
On the other side of the field, the Alabama Crimson Tide had their own tale of resilience and determination. Despite early struggles, they won 11 straight games in their 12-game regular season, showcasing their never-give-up attitude. Their ticket to the Rose Bowl was secured with a triumphant victory over Georgia in the SEC Championship.
Aerial view of Alabama's Million Dollar Band forming a perfectly coordinated elephant on the field of the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, just moments before the start of the 2024 Rose Bowl Game.
Pre-Game Highlights: Key Moments from the 2024 Rose Bowl Game
Before the actual face-off began, the Rose Bowl stadium was already buzzing with activity. The pre-game highlights were a spectacle in their own right and set the tone for the rest of the event. The audience was treated to performances by the Million Dollar Band and the Michigan Marching Band.
Aerial photo of the Million Dollar Band, representing the University of Alabama, as they spell out 'BAMA' on the field of the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, shortly before the start of the 2024 Rose Bowl Game.
Million Dollar Band Performance
The Million Dollar Band of the University of Alabama is celebrated for its impressive ensemble of 407 members and its musical feats, and presented an energetic performance at the 2024 Rose Bowl Game. Their selection of ‘Mr. Brightside’ for the Rose Bowl performance captivated the audience, with Alabama subtly teasing Michigan, with "Mr. Brightside" having become the Crimson Tide's unofficial anthem at every home game.
Aerial view of the Michigan Marching Band's precise formation of a colossal 'M' on the field of the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, just before the 2024 Rose Bowl Game commenced.
Michigan Marching Band Performance
The Michigan Marching Band, with its 400 members, also exhibited their skills at the Rose Bowl Game. The band’s rendition of the national anthem was a memorable moment that set the tone for the rest of the match. Their performance, together with the crowd’s energy, heightened the anticipation and thrill ahead of the impending showdown between the Michigan Wolverines and Alabama Crimson Tide.
Aerial photo of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber soaring over the Michigan Marching Band in an M formation on the field of the Rose Bowl Stadium, at the conclusion of the national anthem of the highly anticipated 2024 Rose Bowl Game on New Year's Day in Pasadena, California.
The Rose Bowl Legacy
Apart from the games and performances, the Rose Bowl carries a legacy that stretches over decades, deeply rooted in college football history. Dating back to 1902, the Rose Bowl Game, known then as the Tournament East–West football game, has been an annual event since 1916 and is credited with originating the term ‘bowl’ for college games, as it was the site of the first postseason college football games. The Rose Bowl stadium, which opened its doors in 1922, has played host to many historical games, including the annual Rose Bowl Game, five Super Bowl games, and multiple FIFA World Cup Finals.
The Rose Bowl Game
The Rose Bowl Game is more than just a game; it’s a tradition that has greatly influenced the realm of college football. Known as ‘The Granddaddy of Them All,’ the Rose Bowl Game holds the distinction of being the oldest bowl game in college football. It started in 1902 as the Tournament East–West football game and has been held annually since 1916.
The iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, located in Pasadena, California, captured in a wide aerial photo showing its massive size, capacity of over 92,000 spectators, and role as the host venue for numerous Super Bowls, BCS championships, and the annual Rose Bowl Game.
Rose Bowl Stadium
Located in Pasadena, California, the Rose Bowl Stadium is a National Historic Landmark. Designed by architect Myron Hunt, the stadium opened on October 28, 1922, and has since hosted numerous sporting events, making it a site of historical significance in American sports. Beyond the annual collegiate football showdown, the Rose Bowl Stadium has hosted five Super Bowl games, numerous concerts, and even the 1994 FIFA World Cup final, showcasing its versatility and prominence in the world of sports and entertainment.
The Rose Parade
Also known as the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Rose Parade is an annual procession that amplifies the thrill of the Rose Bowl. Held every New Year’s Day (or on January 2 if New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday) in Pasadena, California, the parade is a sight to behold and consists of flower-covered floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. The parade route covers 5.5 miles along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena and after the parade, the floats are stationed at the end of the parade route where they are displayed for a day and a half, allowing spectators to continue admiring these floral masterpieces.
A B-2 Spirit stealth bomber flies over the start of the 135th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, marking the beginning of the new year with colorful floats, marching bands, and festive crowds.
The 2024 Rose Bowl Game was more than just a football game. It was a celebration of sport, tradition, and camaraderie. From the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber flyover to the clash between the Michigan Wolverines and the Alabama Crimson Tide, every moment was filled with anticipation and excitement. The pre-game performances by the Million Dollar Band and the Michigan Marching Band added to the festive atmosphere, setting the stage for a memorable New Year's Day.
The Rose Bowl’s rich history, the legacy of the Rose Bowl Game, and the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium all contributed to the grandeur of the event, leaving spectators and participants alike with memories to cherish for years to come.
More photos of the 2024 Rose Bowl can be found at MarkHoltzman.com