$2.6 Million QB Touted as Top College Football Transfer
Indiana University achieved a remarkable feat, concluding a perfect 13–0 regular season and claiming the Big Ten title. The victory over Ohio State marked a significant moment for the program, which secured the No. 1 seed in the expanded College Football Playoff.
Fernando Mendoza: A Game-Changing Quarterback
Under the leadership of second-year head coach Curt Cignetti, who holds a 24–2 record at Indiana, the Hoosiers experienced a season that defined their program. A pivotal figure in this success is quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who transferred from California to Indiana in December 2024.
Impressive Statistics and Achievements
Mendoza had an outstanding 2025 season, completing 226 of 316 passes for a completion rate of 71.5%. His statistics include:
- Passing yards: 2,980
- Passing touchdowns: 33
- Interceptions: 6
- Rushing yards: 240
- Rushing touchdowns: 6
Additionally, he achieved the second-highest passer rating among starting quarterbacks at 181.4. His performance earned him prestigious accolades, such as the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, and Davey O’Brien Award, as well as AP Player of the Year honors.
A High-Value Player and Future Prospects
Mendoza has been recognized as the top transfer addition for the 2025 season by Pete Nakos of On3, illustrating his significant impact on Indiana’s exceptional campaign. He is listed as having an estimated NIL valuation of $2.6 million, making him one of the most valuable assets in college football.
As a product of Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Florida, Mendoza entered the Power Five ranks as a highly-rated three-star recruit, ranked No. 140 among quarterbacks in the 2022 class by 247Sports. His foundation at California included a career-best 3,004 passing yards in 2024, which prepared him for his breakout season in Indiana.
Upcoming Challenges for Indiana
Looking ahead, Indiana, as the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, is set to face No. 9 Alabama in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal on January 1. A victory would propel the Hoosiers into the CFP semifinals scheduled for January 8–9 and potentially lead them to the national championship game on January 19. A successful playoff run would further solidify Mendoza’s rising status as one of college football’s elite quarterbacks.
