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Indiana's Mendoza Celebrates Championship, Honors MS-Stricken Mother

1/23/2026

Summary

Mendoza Celebrates Victory

Fernando Mendoza celebrated Indiana's 27-21 victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff National Championship by embracing his parents on the field.
Mendoza acknowledged his mother, Elsa, who has multiple sclerosis, as a significant influence during his Heisman acceptance speech.
His father, Fernando, remains seated during games to support his wife, and the family has actively fundraised for MS research.
Mendoza's younger brother, Alberto, has entered the college football transfer portal after serving as Indiana's backup quarterback.

Summary

Mendoza Leads Championship

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the Hoosiers to a 27-21 win over the Miami Hurricanes to claim the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Mendoza, the Heisman winner, projected No. 1 NFL Draft pick, completed 16 of 27 passes for 186 yards and scored a rushing TD.
The victory capped a 16-0 season for Indiana and drew NFL figures like Tom Brady, with Mendoza set to appear on The Tonight Show.

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Mendoza Celebrates Victory

Fernando Mendoza celebrated Indiana's 27-21 victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff National Championship by embracing his parents on the field.
Mendoza acknowledged his mother, Elsa, who has multiple sclerosis, as a significant influence during his Heisman acceptance speech.
His father, Fernando, remains seated during games to support his wife, and the family has actively fundraised for MS research.
Mendoza's younger brother, Alberto, has entered the college football transfer portal after serving as Indiana's backup quarterback.

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