Fernando Mendoza wins the Heisman Trophy
Indiana football on Saturday night was the first in its 127-season history. The Hoosiers now have their first Heisman Trophy winner, with Fernando Mendoza seeking that honor. Plus 24 hours after winning the Maxwell Award.
Quarterback he received a prestigious award in New York in front of family and past Heisman winners. Head coach Curt Cignetti was also on hand to celebrate the moment.
Mendoza bet on himself to continue with Cal to begin his collegiate career. He later transferred to IU in what is now a life-changing move, plus a historically tough program.
But Mendoza started theories that the award belongs to him after stunning top-ranked Ohio State for the Big Ten title. He is now the second Hispanic QB to win the Heisman.
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza sparked backlash after winning the Heisman
Mendoza graciously accepted the honor fighting back tears. He then congratulated fellow contestants Jeremy Love, Julian Sayino and Diego Pavia.
A new graphic immediately surfaced featuring the winner — with ESPN renaming the 2025 winner the “Heismando.”
FERNANDO FLIPPIN’ MENDOZA 🏆
Fernando Mendoza becomes Indiana’s first Heisman Trophy winner 😤 pic.twitter.com/RiUegKsp969
— ESPN (@espn) December 14, 2025
Former winner Robert Griffin III made the gesture on the social network X, formerly Twitter.
“Welcome to the Heisman Fernando Mendoza family. The most exclusive brotherhood in the world,” Griffin posted on his account.
The Miami native overcame the odds to not get a scholarship and then transfer. Mendoza, however, gave a rousing speech to potential clients who feel they are in his shoes.
“I want every child who feels neglected, undervalued to know: I was you, I was that child, I was in your shoes,” he began. “It’s true: you don’t need the most stars, hype or rankings. You just need discipline, heart and people who believe in you. And you have to believe in your abilities.”
That speech won CFB insider Bruce Feldman told The Athletic, calling it “a great message for kids to hear.”
He now joins Stanford legend Jim Plunkett in adding Hispanic Heisman winners.
2025-12-14 01:17:00
