Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza is playing in what should be the final game of his college football career. Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, is expected to leave school and become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Las Vegas Raiders, who have the top pick, are in attendance on Monday night.
"Raiders owner Mark Davis here in person with team brass to watch Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza. Raiders have the No. 1 pick," ESPN's Pete Thamel shared.
Mendoza, who's had the best season in Indiana football history, is extremely beloved by his teammates and coaches.
Heading into kickoff on Monday night, Mendoza actually received a $50,000 gift from one of his teammates.
Mendoza's $50,000 pregame gift
Mendoza received a $50,000 gift of jewelry from one of his teammates before kickoff on Monday night.
"Indiana's Elijah Sarratt gifted his teammate Fernando Mendoza iced out jewelry worth ver $50K with 10,000 hand-set stones to thank him for his leadership," Front Office Sports shared.
Mendoza will look to add some even more expensive hardware on Monday night.
Kickoff between No. 1 Indiana and No. 10 Miami is scheduled for 7:50 p.m. E.T. on Monday evening. The game will air on ESPN.