Quarterback Fernando Mendoza delivered a masterclass on and off the field, propelling the Indiana Hoosiers to a resounding 56-22 victory over the Oregon Ducks in Friday's Peach Bowl. The win at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium books Indiana's place in the coveted CHP National Championship Game on January 19th.
A Post-Game Speech of Gratitude and Grit
In a now-characteristic moment, the Heisman Trophy winner began his post-game interview by expressing profound gratitude. 'First of all, I want to give all glory to God,' Mendoza told ESPN. 'The man up above did so much for us today and it's helped myself and our entire team play at such a high level.' His rousing speech, where he called his team 'a bunch of misfits,' quickly captured the attention of fans and media alike, showcasing the leadership that has defined Indiana's remarkable season.
Dominant Performance on the Atlanta Stage
The Hoosiers' offence, orchestrated by Mendoza, was unstoppable from the outset. The game ignited just 11 seconds in with a stunning pick-six from D'Angelo Ponds. Although Oregon briefly levelled the score in the first quarter, the Hoosiers swiftly reasserted control. Mendoza's precision was on full display, completing 17 of 20 passes for 177 yards and five touchdowns, guiding his team to a commanding 35-7 half-time lead.
The second half offered no respite for the Ducks, with Kaelon Black, Elijah Sarratt, and E.J. Williams all adding touchdowns to compile the misery. In stark contrast, Oregon quarterback Dante Moore endured a difficult night, with his performance drawing heavy criticism from fans online, particularly those of the New York Jets, who are widely tipped to select him in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead: A Miami Homecoming
The Hoosiers now turn their attention to the national title game, where they will face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes, who secured their spot by defeating Ole Miss 31-27 on Thursday. For Mendoza, a Cuban-American, the fixture represents a significant homecoming. 'It's a homecoming for myself, going to Miami,' he said. 'The Hurricanes are a fantastic team... it's going to be a great match-up.'
This victory marks another pinnacle in Mendoza's extraordinary year. After transferring from Cal, he led Indiana through an undefeated regular season, becoming the first Indiana Hoosier and first Cuban-American to win the Heisman Trophy. His 2025 haul also includes the Maxwell Award, the Walter Camp Award, and the AP College Football Player of the Year award, cementing his status as the nation's premier player.
