IU quarterback Fernando Mendoza announced as Heisman finalist

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) — Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza has a chance to earn the top individual award in college football.

On Monday, Mendoza was one of four players announced as finalists for this year’s Heisman Trophy.

The IU signal caller has helped lead IU to a 13-0 record this season.

This past Saturday, he led the Hoosiers to their first Big Ten Championship Game victory when IU topped Ohio State 13-10 inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Mendoza has thrown for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns and six interceptions in IU’s 13 games. His 33 touchdowns leads all FBS quarterbacks. Mendoza added six rushing touchdowns as well.

The junior is the second-ever Heisman Trophy finalist from IU. The only other finalist from IU for the award was Anthony Thompson, who finished runner-up for the Heisman Trophy in 1989.

The other three finalists for the 2025 Heisman Trophy are Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin.

The winner of the Heisman Trophy will be revealed on Saturday night in New York City. News 8 Sports will be in the Big Apple for the big announcement and will have coverage on WISH-TV.