Indianapolis, December 13, 2025
The 2025 College Football Awards celebrated outstanding athletic performance, with Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza earning top honors. He received the Maxwell and Davey O’Brien awards for his exceptional contributions to the Hoosiers’ historic 13-0 season, which culminated in a Big Ten championship. The awards also recognized other remarkable talents from across various college programs, reflecting the hard work and resilience in college football. The economic impact of these achievements benefits local businesses and inspires community entrepreneurship.
Indianapolis, Indiana – The 2025 College Football Awards showcased remarkable talent, highlighting local athletes and coaches who have made a significant impact on the sport. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza emerged as a standout figure, achieving both the Maxwell Award for the nation’s top player and the Davey O’Brien Award for best quarterback. Mendoza led the Hoosiers to an unprecedented 13-0 season, securing a Big Ten championship and the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. His performance included a school-record 33 passing touchdowns and 2,980 passing yards, cementing his place in Indiana’s sports history.
This year’s awards did not only celebrate individual achievements but also reflected the hard work and innovation displayed by various college programs across the nation. The success of these athletes can inspire local entrepreneurs and small businesses in Indianapolis to pursue excellence and resilience in a competitive environment. With less red tape and more support for innovation, Indianapolis can cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial spirit that benefits the entire community.
### Dominance in Football Awards
Indiana’s Mendoza was joined by other notable winners at the College Football Awards, creating a buzz within the local sports community. Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was distinguished as the top defensive player, earning the Chuck Bednarik Award and the Butkus Award for best linebacker, along with other accolades such as the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Lombardi Award. His achievements underscore the importance of defensive prowess in the game and exemplify how dedication can lead to success.
### Other Notable Awardees
In addition to Mendoza and Rodriguez, the awards recognized an array of talent across different positions. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love received the Doak Walker Award for best running back, highlighting his contributions to the Fighting Irish’s success. USC’s Makai Lemon claimed the Biletnikoff Award for outstanding receiver, while Utah’s Spencer Fano earned the Outland Trophy for the top interior lineman. Iowa’s Logan Jones received the Rimington Trophy for best center, and Oklahoma’s Tate Sandell was awarded the Lou Groza Award for top kicker.
### Coach of the Year Recognition
The award for Coach of the Year went to Indiana’s Curt Cignetti for the second consecutive time, further affirming the Hoosiers’ commitment to excellence in college football. His leadership has played a crucial role in guiding the team to historic victories and fostering a winning culture.
### Heisman Trophy Finalists
Mendoza’s accomplishments also earned him a spot as a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, alongside Love, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin, and Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia. The announcement of the Heisman winner will take place in New York, adding an extra layer of excitement for the Indianapolis community, which has rallied behind Mendoza throughout his impressive season.
### Economic Impact of College Football
The successful seasons of these athletes can translate into economic benefits for Indianapolis, where local businesses thrive on the enthusiasm generated by college football. Increased attendance at games, local merchandise sales, and hospitality services are just a few ways the sport positively impacts the economy. Supporting these athletes and their programs fosters a sense of community spirit and can inspire the next generation of Indiana entrepreneurs.
### Conclusion
The 2025 College Football Awards have not only highlighted individual brilliance but have also spotlighted the potential for growth and success within the Indianapolis community. As the local economy thrives on such successes, it inspires local businesses to innovate and adapt, fostering an environment where entrepreneurship can flourish. Indianapolis residents are encouraged to support their local teams, businesses, and entrepreneurs to continue building a vibrant and resilient community.
#### Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Maxwell Award and the Davey O’Brien Award in 2025?
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza won both the Maxwell Award for the nation’s top player and the Davey O’Brien Award for best quarterback at the 2025 College Football Awards.
Which players received the Chuck Bednarik and Butkus Awards in 2025?
Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez received both the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation’s top defensive player and the Butkus Award for best linebacker at the 2025 College Football Awards.
Who were the Heisman Trophy finalists in 2025?
The 2025 Heisman Trophy finalists were Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin, and Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia.
#### Key Features of the 2025 College Football Awards
| Award | Winner | Recipient’s Team |
|---|---|---|
| Maxwell Award | Fernando Mendoza | Indiana |
| Davey O’Brien Award | Fernando Mendoza | Indiana |
| Chuck Bednarik Award | Jacob Rodriguez | Texas Tech |
| Butkus Award | Jacob Rodriguez | Texas Tech |
| Doak Walker Award | Jeremiyah Love | Notre Dame |
| Biletnikoff Award | Makai Lemon | USC |
| Outland Trophy | Spencer Fano | Utah |
| Rimington Trophy | Logan Jones | Iowa |
| Lou Groza Award | Tate Sandell | Oklahoma |
| Coach of the Year | Curt Cignetti | Indiana |
Now Happening on X
- @Hot1009indy (December 8, 2025, 9:21 AM) IMPD reports a man was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side, followed by a woman dying in a shooting on the near south side a few hours later. View on X
- @PraiseIndy (December 8, 2025, 9:42 AM) IMPD confirms a man was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side and a woman died in a shooting on the near south side a few hours later. View on X
- @JesseWellsNews (December 11, 2025, 3:43 PM) IMPD states street racing on slick winter roads led to a deadly hit-and-run crash on Indy’s west side, killing an innocent driver; the responsible driver has been arrested. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 11, 2025, 4:42 PM) A death investigation is underway after Indianapolis metro police found a body with trauma inside a home on the city’s east side. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (December 12, 2025, 12:21 AM) New details emerge from IMPD’s death investigation at an east side home where police found a dead man and an injured woman. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 12, 2025, 12:21 AM) New details are emerging after IMPD conducted a death investigation at an east side home where police found a dead man and an injured woman. View on X
- @wrtv (December 12, 2025, 9:07 AM) A man is in custody after a deadly incident on Indianapolis’ east side Thursday afternoon left a man dead and a woman hospitalized. View on X
- @RickFOP86 (December 12, 2025, 9:13 AM) Solid police work led to the arrest of a suspect in the death of an elderly man and critically injured elderly woman found in an east side home; the suspect was tracked to Greene County and brought back to Indianapolis. View on X
- @ScottWTHR (December 12, 2025, 3:05 PM) Today at 5: Follow-up on suspect arrested after man found dead and woman injured in Indy, along with snowy and frigid weekend weather forecast. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
