Fernando Mendoza, the star quarterback for the Indiana Hoosiers, became the first player in Indiana University history to earn the Heisman Trophy and finish the season with a perfect 16-0 record by beating the Miami Hurricanes 27–21 in the College Football Playoff National Championship game. 

Mendoza’s award season began with a spectacular regular year. In 2025, he completed 226 of 316 passes for 2,980 yards and led the nation with 33 passing touchdowns, while also rushing for 240 yards and six scores. He finished high in most Heisman voting categories, earning 2,362 points with 643 first-place votes, topping the field and becoming one of the most dominant players in the country. 

Mendoza’s success wasn’t just about volume — it was about efficiency and leadership. He ranked among the nation’s best with a 71.5 % completion percentage and was second nationally in total touchdowns accounted for (39). He also led Indiana to a 13-0 record and its first outright Big Ten Conference championship. 

In the national title game, Mendoza again delivered in the biggest moment. While his passing line in the championship was 16 of 27 for 186 yards without an interception, his leadership and decision-making helped Indiana secure the win. Mendoza capped the pivotal drive with a crucial 12-yard fourth-down touchdown run late in the fourth quarter — a decisive play that sealed the Hoosiers’ 27-21 victory and completed their undefeated season. 

Mendoza has also joined an exclusive group of players in college football history to win the Heisman and a national title in the same season, matching a feat accomplished by greats such as Joe Burrow. 

The Hoosiers’ championship run, anchored by Mendoza’s play, marked a dramatic rise for a program that had never before reached such heights. With both the Heisman Trophy and a national championship now in hand, Mendoza’s 2025 season will be remembered as one of the best individual performances in college football history.