Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza makes history with Heisman Trophy win in NYC

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza makes history with Heisman Trophy win in NYC originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza joked earlier this week that growing up, his best chance to win the Heisman Trophy was in a video game. On Saturday night, the punchline became reality.

Mendoza was named the Heisman Trophy winner, becoming the first player in Indiana football history to claim college football’s most prestigious individual award. The Hoosiers’ signal-caller beat out Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.

The moment capped a remarkable journey for the former two-star recruit, who once considered walking away from the sport amid limited interest from Power Four programs. Mendoza credits his mother, Elsa, for urging him to persevere, advice that ultimately carried him to the top of the college football world.

Mendoza is Indiana’s first Heisman winner and only its second finalist, joining running back Anthony Thompson, who finished second to Houston quarterback Andre Ware in 1989. Other Hoosiers to place in the top 10 of the Heisman voting include Kurtis Rourke (2024), Tevin Coleman (2014), Antwaan Randle El (2001), Vaughn Dunbar (1991) and Bill Hillenbrand (1942).

No. 1 Indiana enters the College Football Playoff at 13-0 after defeating then-No. 1 Ohio State 13-10 in the Big Ten championship game, securing its first outright conference title since 1945. Mendoza completed 71.5% of his passes this season for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns and six interceptions, adding six rushing scores. His 39 total touchdowns lead the FBS and set a program record.

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