Fernando Mendoza, the 22-year-old quarterback from Indiana, has become the talk of the town in college football circles. With 16 touchdowns and just one interception this season, Mendoza has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with. As one NFL personnel executive notes, 'That's why Mendoza, to me, has gained the most steam.' Mendoza's impressive stats and his ability to take control of games have earned him a spot on the 2025 Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Award Watch List. 'It's a huge point of pride,' Mendoza said in an interview, speaking on the importance of his Cuban roots. But Mendoza's journey to greatness didn't start overnight. He transferred to Indiana as a third-string quarterback before taking hold of the starting gig and leading the Hoosiers to a top-10 ranking. As he faces off against Oregon's Dante Moore in a highly anticipated matchup, it's clear that Mendoza is on a mission to prove himself as one of the top quarterback prospects in the country. 'The outcome will hinge on which quarterback can take control and make the biggest impact,' says football analyst Josh Pate. With Mendoza's impressive skills and his determination to succeed, it's no wonder he's becoming the talk of the town. Will he be able to take down the undefeated Oregon Ducks and solidify his spot as one of the top quarterback prospects? Only time will tell.
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Fernando Mendoza's Rise to Greatness: The Unlikely NFL Darling Taking the College Football World by Storm
2 min read
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North America
October 11, 2025
www.espn.com

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How Oregon's Dante Moore, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza became unlikely NFL darlings - ESPN
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Fernando Mendoza Named to 2025 Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Watch List
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Why Dante Moore and Fernando Mendoza Could Decide Oregon vs. Indiana
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