The Heisman Trophy is the biggest honor awarded in college football. Established in 1935, the award is given to the top player in college football after the conclusion of the regular season in December each year.
This year, the trophy went to Fernando Mendoza, a junior quarterback for the Indiana Hoosiers—someone many have considered not worthy of the trophy. Some people believe that Jeremiah Smith, a sophomore wide receiver at Ohio State, deserved the trophy more than anyone. Smith, who didn’t even earn a finalist spot, finished with 80 catches for 1,086 yards and 11 touchdowns, showcasing game-changing talent.
While Smith has that talent, Mendoza was ultimately chosen as the winner and topped the list of finalists. He was highlighted for the success Indiana has seen this season. The team earned its first top-10 finish since 1967, the last time it won a Big Ten title.
Mendoza racked up 2,980 passing yards and 33 touchdowns while rushing for 240 yards and six more scores. He won the trophy for his impeccable play and his role in Indiana’s rise.
Mendoza didn’t just win the trophy—he made history. He is the first Cuban American to win the award, the first Indiana player to win it and the third Latino winner overall. He showed pride in his heritage in a heartfelt moment when he spoke Spanish to his grandparents during his acceptance speech.
Mendoza transferred from the University of California after graduating from Berkeley’s Haas School of Business in 2025. At the University of California, he secured the starting quarterback position, but that wasn’t enough for him to stay. In December 2024, he announced he would be transferring to Indiana University.
“I was not considered a top-tier quarterback prospect,” Mendoza said in his acceptance speech.
Mendoza showed his humble nature during his speech, but don’t let that fool you. After victories over Illinois and Michigan State—including a season-high 332 passing yards in a 38-13 win over Michigan State—he proved he belonged among the nation’s elite.
One of his Heisman-defining moments came in the 13-10 upset win over Ohio State, where he outshined Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin by throwing for 222 yards and a touchdown. Thanks to that performance, he was named the game’s most valuable player, which ultimately skyrocketed him to the top of the Heisman list.
Mendoza is also outspoken about his faith in the Catholic Church. He incorporates daily Mass into his game-day routine and coordinates team Bible studies.
Fernando and his younger brother, Alberto, share quarterback duties on the 2025 Hoosiers football team.
Both of them speak openly about how they play football not just for themselves, but for their family.
“One of the major ‘whys’ is our mom and family,” Mendoza said.
While Mendoza might not have been most people’s pick for the trophy, he has shown great potential and deep gratitude for the position he’s in. He is a strong example of someone deserving of the award and sets an example for all who come after him.
And while he has won the trophy, his run for the 2025 season with the Hoosiers isn’t over yet. Indiana will fight for the NCAA Division I national championship, hoping to secure a dream ending that remains within reach.