Quarterback Fernando Mendoza and the Indiana Hoosiers claimed the national championship trophy on Monday after an unbeaten season, defeating the Miami Hurricanes 27-21.
It was an unforgettable season for the Heisman winner, who transferred to Bloomington from California in December 2024. The move brought a national championship trophy to Indiana’s cabinet for the first time.
Mendoza totaled 3,349 yards and 41 touchdowns, maintaining a 73% completion rate. The signal caller was intercepted only six times all season.
Head coach Curt Cignetti identified an undervalued talent and completely turned the program around. After two years, his record stands at 27-2.
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"He's so tough. He got hit. He had no time. He keeps getting back up...just a great competitor," Cignetti expressed on Mendoza. "There's no way this gets done without that kind of performance at that position."
But what got the attention of the fans was Mendoza's words after he climbed the podium.
Fernando Mendoza's Viral Win Reaction
Winning the championship was a dream come true for the quarterback, which was very evident from Mendoza's immediate words.
"We're always going to put all on the line. I want to give all the glory and thanks to God there," he said.
The interview also put the spotlight on his arm, which looked battered and bruised.
"I'll die for my team, whatever they need me to do," Mendoza expressed. "They need me to take shots in the front, in the back, whatever it is. I know they're going to do the same for me...That's what makes this national championship so special."
He ended the interview with a statement that captured the essence of the win. "There's no words. There's no worries. This is the most special moment of my life. And I know my teammates here, there's no one else I'd rather do it with."
After receiving the national championship trophy, Mendoza’s excitement went sky-high. During his speech, he dropped an F-bomb on stage, which was very uncharacteristic of his personality. Fans loved seeing that side of him.
"They really know how to hype up the crowd, love it!" a fan wrote.
"Love this kid!" another said.
"Pure energy 🔥 Fernando Mendoza all heart. That’s a leader," one expressed.
"Did he swear??! I never would’ve thought 🤣," a fan commented.
"That’s my quarterback right there, let’s goooo 🔥," another posted.
"He cusses ?! Oh, he’s a HOF," one joked.