Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Wins Heisman Trophy in Historic Upset
BREAKING: In a historic moment for college football, Fernando Mendoza, the dynamic quarterback for No. 1 Indiana, has just been awarded the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night, marking the first time a Hoosier has won the prestigious accolade since the award’s inception in 1935.
Mendoza secured 2,362 first-place votes, decisively defeating Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, who received 1,435 votes, as well as Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with 719 votes and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin with 432 votes. This victory underscores Mendoza’s pivotal role in leading Indiana to its first-ever top ranking and the top seed in the upcoming College Football Playoff.
With an impressive season, Mendoza threw for 2,980 yards and a national-leading 33 touchdown passes, while also contributing six rushing touchdowns. Indiana heads into the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, set to face off in the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2024. The Hoosiers are the last unbeaten team in major college football.
Mendoza, who transferred from California, has redefined Indiana’s offense, breaking program records for touchdowns and points previously set during last season’s surprising playoff run. As a redshirt junior and the second Heisman finalist in Indiana’s history—joining Anthony Thompson, the 1989 runner-up—Mendoza’s achievement is monumental.
“This is an incredible honor, not just for me but for our entire program and the fans,” Mendoza said after receiving the trophy.
Meanwhile, Pavia’s performance was notable as he threw for a school-record 3,192 yards and 27 touchdowns, making him Vanderbilt’s first Heisman finalist in history. Pavia led the Commodores to their first 10-win season and six victories against ranked teams, significantly elevating the program’s status.
In another remarkable season, Love of Notre Dame rushed for 1,372 yards, ranking fourth in the Bowl Subdivision, and scored 18 rushing touchdowns. His standout plays included two remarkable runs exceeding 90 yards, showcasing his unique ability to evade defenders.
As the Heisman Trophy presentation unfolded, Mendoza had already claimed multiple accolades, being named The Associated Press Player of the Year and winning both the Maxwell and Davey O’Brien Awards. The ceremony highlighted Mendoza’s exceptional season and his place in college football history.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate the upcoming quarterfinal matchups, including Mendoza’s Indiana team in the Rose Bowl and Vanderbilt’s clash in the ReliaQuest Bowl against Iowa on December 31, 2023. As the excitement builds for the playoffs, Mendoza’s historic Heisman win is sure to be a focal point in discussions around college football.
