Indianapolis, December 11, 2025
Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback for Indiana University, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy. His incredible performance throughout the season, including leading the Hoosiers to a 13-0 record and throwing 33 touchdown passes, has put him in the spotlight among other top athletes in college football. This recognition emphasizes Indiana’s evolving sports narrative and showcases local talent’s capability of making a mark on a national level.
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Named Heisman Trophy Finalist
Local Quarterback Shines Bright in College Football Landscape
Indianapolis, IN – The Heisman Trophy Trust recently unveiled the finalists for the prestigious 2025 Heisman Trophy, showcasing the best talent in college football. Among these esteemed athletes is Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who has made a significant impact on the Hoosiers’ successful season. His achievements not only reflect his hard work but also the potential of Indiana’s sports programs as a breeding ground for future talent.
This year’s finalists also include Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, Diego Pavia from Vanderbilt, and Julian Sayin representing Ohio State. Each of these players has displayed remarkable abilities and leadership, contributing to their teams’ respective successes throughout the season. Mendoza’s recognition as a finalist illuminates a broader narrative of how local and state talent can compete on national stages, often transcending their university roots to achieve great recognition and potential professional careers.
Fernando Mendoza’s Stellar Season
This season, Mendoza was pivotal in leading Indiana to an impressive 13-0 record, securing the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. He has thrown for 2,980 yards, leading the nation with 33 touchdown passes, while also adding six rushing touchdowns. His performance this year set a new Indiana single-season record for touchdown passes, underscoring his pivotal role in the team’s success.
Jeremiyah Love’s Impactful Play
Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame has also made a substantial impact on the field, rushing for 1,372 yards and scoring 18 touchdowns. He ranks fourth nationally in rushing yards and third in rushing touchdowns. Love’s impressive performance includes a remarkable average of 6.9 yards per carry, which ties him for first among players with at least 150 rushing attempts.
Diego Pavia’s Dual-Threat Performance
Vanderbilt’s quarterback Diego Pavia has demonstrated his dual-threat capabilities this season, throwing for 3,192 yards and generating 27 touchdown passes. Additionally, Pavia has been a significant contributor on the ground, accumulating 826 rushing yards and scoring nine rushing touchdowns, which has helped lead the Commodores to a strong 10-2 season.
Julian Sayin’s Consistency
Lastly, Julian Sayin from Ohio State has led his team to an undefeated 12-0 regular season, achieving 3,323 passing yards and 31 touchdowns with an outstanding completion rate of 78.4%, the highest in the Football Bowl Subdivision. His consistency has been a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ success throughout the season.
Heisman Trophy Ceremony Details
The winner of the 2025 Heisman Trophy will be announced on Saturday, December 13, at 7 p.m. ET during the annual Heisman Trophy dinner held in New York City.
Background on the Heisman Trophy
Established in 1935, the Heisman Trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football. The prestigious award is named after John Heisman, a prominent figure in college football coaching and playing. Finalists are selected based on their performance during the regular season, with the winner determined through a voting process involving sports journalists, former players, and coaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the finalists for the 2025 Heisman Trophy?
The finalists are Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin.
When and where will the Heisman Trophy winner be announced?
The winner will be announced on Saturday, December 13, at 7 p.m. ET during the annual Heisman Trophy dinner in New York City.
What are Fernando Mendoza’s achievements this season?
Mendoza has led Indiana to a 13-0 record, throwing for 2,980 yards and 33 touchdown passes, and adding six rushing touchdowns, setting a new Indiana single-season record for touchdown passes.
How has Jeremiyah Love performed this season?
Love has rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, ranking fourth nationally in rushing yards and third in rushing touchdowns, with a 6.9 yards per carry average.
What are Diego Pavia’s contributions to Vanderbilt’s season?
Pavia has thrown for 3,192 yards and 27 touchdowns, and rushed for 826 yards and nine touchdowns, leading Vanderbilt to a 10-2 season.
What are Julian Sayin’s statistics this season?
Sayin has thrown for 3,323 yards and 31 touchdowns, with a completion rate of 78.4%, leading Ohio State to a 12-0 regular season.
Key Features of the 2025 Heisman Trophy Finalists
| Player | Position | Team | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fernando Mendoza | Quarterback | Indiana | Led team to 13-0 record; 2,980 passing yards; 33 TD passes; 6 rushing TDs; Set Indiana single-season record for TD passes |
| Jeremiyah Love | Running Back | Notre Dame | 1,372 rushing yards; 18 rushing TDs; 6.9 yards per carry; Tied for first in yards per carry among players with at least 150 rushing attempts |
| Diego Pavia | Quarterback | Vanderbilt | 3,192 passing yards; 27 TD passes; 826 rushing yards; 9 rushing TDs; Led team to 10-2 record |
| Julian Sayin | Quarterback | Ohio State | 3,323 passing yards; 31 TD passes; 78.4% completion rate; Led team to 12-0 regular season |
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