Fernando Mendoza received the “most elite” award.

Historic Indiana Hoosiers College Football Playoff running unexpectedly received notable recognition this week. During Rose Bowl media day in Los Angeles, Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Deontae Lawson had high praise for Heisman beat Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendozaoffering an honest assessment that underscored how seriously the Crimson Tide take Indiana’s offense.

Asked if Mendoza reminded him of any quarterbacks he’s faced before, Lawson didn’t hesitate to say raise the conversation beyond compare.

“No. I wouldn’t say he reminds me of anybody,” Lawson said, via Cover Crimson. “He’s probably and honestly the most elite quarterback we’ve faced since coach (Cullen) DeBoer has been here. He’s just elite. We’ve got to try to impact them early and it’ll definitely pay off for us in the end.”

“(Fernando Mendoza) is probably the most elite quarterback we’ve faced since Coach DeBoer has been here…” Alabama LB Deontae Lawson pic.twitter.com/IKVhvAh65K

— Cover Crimson (@CoverCrimson) December 30, 2025

Comments came as Alabama was preparing for the Rose Bowl quarterfinal matchup against undefeated Indiana, marking a rare moment when the defensive leader publicly acknowledged the challenge Mendoza presents.

Lawson’s remarks reflect a broader appreciation Indiana has made money all over college football during its flawless Big Ten Championship season.

Mendoza, a California transfer and Heisman Trophy winner, transformed Indiana’s offense into one of the most efficient units in the country. During the Hoosiers’ 13-0 campaign, he threw for 2,980 yards and 33 touchdowns. While Alabama enters the matchup as a seasoned playoff program, the Crimson Tide made it clear they understand that limiting Indiana’s floor general will be the key to progress.

This Rose Bowl appearance is especially crucial for Indiana. It marks the program’s first trip to Pasadena since Jan. 1, 1968, and puts the Hoosiers just three wins from completing one of the most amazing national championship is held in recent college football history.

The contrast between the programs is striking. Alabama advances to the quarterfinals after defeating the Oklahoma Sooners 34-24 on Dec. 19 to reach the Rose Bowl, while Indiana dominated its way through the Big Ten.

Adding another layer to the game, Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti previously spent four seasons on Alabama’s staff under Nick Saban, a connection that brings additional intrigue to the showdown.

As the 112th Rose Bowl ushers in a new era with a CFP quarterfinal setup, all eyes will be on Mendoza. Lawson’s “most elite” tag sets the tone for what could be a defining match Indiana footballfuture and determine if this remarkable season will continue on college football’s biggest stage.