Fernando Mendoza, once an overlooked transfer quarterback from Cal, made history Saturday night by winning the 2025 Heisman Trophy—becoming the first player from Indiana University ever to claim college football’s most coveted individual award.
Mendoza beat out frontrunners Julian Sayin of Ohio State, Diego Pavia of Vanderbilt, and Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love. Pavia finished second, followed by Love and Sayin.
The junior quarterback’s rise was as improbable as it was historic. Mendoza led Indiana to its first Big Ten championship since 1958 and an undefeated season, capped off by a dramatic win over previously unbeaten Ohio State. His performance helped elevate the Hoosiers to the No. 1 spot in the final College Football Playoff rankings.
Statistically, Mendoza was solid but not flashy: he completed 71.5% of his passes, threw 33 touchdowns against only six interceptions, and added six rushing scores. He finished second nationally in yards per attempt and passer rating. But it was his leadership, clutch play, and unbeaten record that set him apart.
Following the Big Ten title win, Mendoza captured hearts with a post-game speech that gave glory to God and praised his teammates. The emotional moment resonated across the nation and may have helped tip the Heisman vote in his favor.
Originally a three-star recruit from Miami, Mendoza redshirted at Cal and gradually improved year over year. After a strong 2024 season, he transferred to Indiana, where his younger brother Alberto was a reserve QB. The move proved pivotal for both Mendoza and the Hoosier program.
Despite entering championship weekend as an underdog to Sayin and Pavia, Mendoza’s head-to-head performance in the conference title game sealed the deal. Indiana’s win and his leadership in the spotlight became the deciding factors.
Next, Mendoza and the undefeated Hoosiers head to the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day to begin their pursuit of a national championship in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals.
