<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Las Vegas Raiders</a></strong> are very interested in drafting <strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong> with the first overall pick. However, they want to see more of the soon-to-be rookie, and the best way to do so is in the <strong>NFL</strong> Combine. The quarterback made something clear about his participation in the event.</p>



<p><strong>Mendoza is regarded as the best QB in the 2026 class</strong>, but that doesn’t mean another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/heisman-finalist-warns-tom-brady-raiders-about-drafting-fernando-mendoza-in-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heisman finalist didn’t warn Tom Brady about drafting Mendoza</a>. Still, it remains to be seen how much the Raiders take into consideration the Combine.</p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mendoza</a> will attend the Combine, but <strong>didn’t confirm if he will actually participate on the drills</strong>. However, Mendoza will also have an opportuity to showcase his talents at Indiana’s Pro Day.</p>



<h2>Geno Smith will be looking closely</h2>



<p>Much has been said about the Raiders drafting a quarterback. However, less than a year ago, they signed Geno Smith in what was supposed to be the signing of a franchise quarterback. However, Smith was really underperforming this season. With a 2-13 record in 15 games, <strong>Smith had only 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns and an NFL-leading 17 interceptions</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/30171252/geno-smith-1920x1080.webp" alt="Geno Smith #7 of the Las Vegas Raiders" class="wp-image-570842"></figure><figcaption>Geno Smith #7 of the Las Vegas Raiders</figcaption></figure>



<p>With a change of pace coming to the franchise, the quarterback’s future is up in the air. After all, Pete Carroll is no longer the head coach of the team, and he is the one who brought Smith. <strong>If the Raiders draft Mendoza, a true QB battle will ensue in the following months.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/fernando-mendoza-makes-something-clear-about-his-nfl-future-after-leading-indiana-to-the-national-championship"></div>


<h2>The Raiders need to solve another problem as before that</h2>



<p>Before drafting anyone, the Raiders must hire a new head coach. Them, alongside the Arizona Cardinals, are the only teams yet to determine who their head coach will be in 2026. <strong>For the Raiders, it’s even more important as they have the first overall pick and a whole change of direction could be following that hire</strong>.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="697d31be70a943df4bc929c4" data-title="Is it wise for Fernando Mendoza to participate in the NFL Combine?" data-options="2"></div>

Fernando Mendoza makes something clear about the NFL Combine amid Raiders interest to draft him

Fernando Mendoza makes something clear about the NFL Combine amid Raiders interest to draft him - Bolavip US

miniaturas

<p>Though a minority owner on paper, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a></strong> wields significant influence over every decision made by the <strong>Las Vegas Raiders</strong>—especially when it comes to selecting a quarterback with the number one overall pick in the 2026 <strong>NFL</strong> Draft. On that note, Heisman Trophy finalist <strong>Diego Pavia</strong> issued a blunt message, hinting that drafting <strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong> over him would be a mistake.</p>



<p>Following his stellar 2025 NCAA season with Indiana, in which he hoisted the Heisman Trophy, the Big Ten Championship, and the National Championship, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Mendoza</a> has cemented himself as the consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. However, Pavia is now challenging that widespread belief, delivering a bold message for Brady’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders">Raiders</a> to heed.</p>



<p><em>“I feel like <strong>I’m the best player in the country</strong>, and I still believe that,”</em> Pavia told <em>ESPN</em> ahead of the Senior Bowl. Prior to Las Vegas securing the first overall selection in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>, several mock drafts projected Pavia to land in Nevada. However, with an unsurpassable chance to select Mendoza, it seems there isn’t much of a discussion to be had by Brady and the brass in Sin City.</p>



<h2>Mendoza chasing history, Pavia eyes redemption</h2>



<p>If Mendoza ends up being the first overall selection in 2026, the Indiana quarterback would join an elite list of athletes. Needless to say, not many <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/fernando-mendoza-leads-indiana-to-national-title-how-many-heisman-winners-and-cfp-champions-became-no-1-pick-in-nfl-draft">Heisman winners and CFP champions have become the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/28131120/heisman-finalists-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-569719"></figure><figcaption>From left to right: Jeremiyah Love, Fernando Mendoza, Diego Pavia, and Julian Sayin</figcaption></figure>



<p>The spotlight has shifted towards Mendoza entirely. At some point in the 2025 college football season, Pavia was considered a favorite to win the Heisman trophy. However, since falling short of the award, <strong>Pavia’s personality has cost him some points with media and fans. </strong></p>


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<h2>Mendoza vs. Pavia: just getting started</h2>



<p>In more ways than one, Mendoza and Pavia represent very different mindsets. The Indiana alum seems like the ideal student of the game, while <strong>Pavia is a “bad boy” who pushes limits to reach his goals</strong>. Both excel on the gridiron, though. Had Vanderbilt been selected for the playoffs, a matchup between the two would have set TV ratings soaring. </p>



<p>However, that wasn’t the case, and a <strong>showdown between Pavia and Mendoza will have to wait for the NFL</strong>. Meanwhile, the New Mexico State transfer isn’t losing hope of proving he’s the best quarterback in the nation. It may take a miracle, but he is doing everything in his power to show Brady, the Raiders, and the rest of the league just that.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="697a521d3a480cbb48618627" data-title="If not Mendoza, who should the Raiders draft with the No. 1 pick?" data-options="4"></div>

Heisman finalist warns Tom Brady, Raiders about drafting Fernando Mendoza in 2026

Heisman finalist warns Tom Brady, Raiders about drafting Fernando Mendoza in 2026 - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fernando Mendoza</a></strong> has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Following his decision, the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers quarterback</strong> has now dropped a <strong>major hint about his preferred team</strong> to join.</p>



<p>On Thursday, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/fernando-mendoza-makes-something-clear-about-his-nfl-future-after-leading-indiana-to-the-national-championship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fernando Mendoza made something clear about his NFL future</a></strong> by declaring for the 2026 Draft. While many teams are expected to pursue him, it appears he may have already envisioned where he wants to begin his professional career.</p>



<p>During an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Fernando Mendoza was seen <strong>wearing a gray-and-black jacket</strong>. That detail immediately caught fans’ attention, as those <strong>colors closely resemble the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Las Vegas Raiders</a>’ iconic uniforms</strong>, sparking speculation that it could be a <strong>subtle hint about his future destination</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fresh off <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianaFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianaFootball</a>’s historic college football championship win, 2025 Heisman Trophy Winner Fernando Mendoza crashes Jimmy’s monologue to break some more records! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FallonTonight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FallonTonight</a> <a href="https://t.co/FuzF2M5IKB">pic.twitter.com/FuzF2M5IKB</a></p>— The Tonight Show (@FallonTonight) <a href="https://twitter.com/FallonTonight/status/2014559387243667688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>The Raiders can’t mess this up</h2>



<p>Last year, the Raiders decided to acquire <strong>Geno Smith</strong> to be the team’s starting quarterback. However, the <strong>veteran failed to meet expectations</strong>, and it now appears a major change at the position could be coming soon.</p>



<p>The Raiders currently hold the <strong>No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft</strong>. For many scouts, Fernando Mendoza would be the clear choice at that spot, and all signs point to Las Vegas being his most likely destination.</p>


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<p>During the <strong>National Championship game</strong>—where Mendoza’s Indiana team defeated Miami—<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> and Mark Davis were spotted closely watching the quarterback</strong>. The Raiders’ ownership appears to be fully aware of Mendoza’s potential, and many believe he could be the <strong>franchise quarterback the team has been searching for</strong>.</p>



<p>If nothing unexpected happens, Mendoza could be leading the Raiders in 2026. However, it will be <strong>crucial for the organization to strengthen the roster around him</strong>, starting with <strong>improving the offensive line</strong> to properly protect their potential new star.</p>


        

        

Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza hints at preferred NFL team after declaring for the 2026 Draft

Fernando Mendoza leads Indiana to national title: How many Heisman winners and CFP champions became No. 1 pick in NFL Draft?

Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza sends clear message to Miami after National Championship win

Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza hints at preferred NFL team after declaring for the 2026 Draft - Bolavip US

<p>Taking an underpar<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College Football</a></strong> program and take it all the way to a Natty is stuff of legends. Hence, <strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong>‘s stock is at an all-time high. Also, winning the Heisman helps, but now the quarterback is setting his sights into the next level. He sent the <strong>NFL</strong> a clear message of what’s next.</p>



<p>In an Instagram post, <strong>Fernando Mendoza announced that he will be entering the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> Draft</strong>. Mendoza was already the favorite to go first overall this upcoming draft and rumors about the Raiders really wanting him had just grown more and more after the Natty.</p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mendoza</a> ended his 2025 season with a 72% pass completion, 3,535 yards, <strong>led the country with 41 touchdowns and only threw six picks</strong>. The QB also led the country with a 182.9 rate and led the Big Ten in yards per attempt too.</p>



<h2>The Raiders need to do some work before drafting Mendoza</h2>



<p>It’s pretty much a done deal that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raiders</a> will draft Mendoza. However, <strong>this team needs more than just a quarterback to go back to its winning ways</strong>. The fact is they need to find a head coach, an offensive coordinator and reestructure this thing from top to bottom.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/07120251/Tom-Brady-co-owner-of-the-Las-Vegas-Raiders-1920x1080.webp" alt="Tom Brady, co-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders" class="wp-image-557906"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady, co-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> is the co-owner of the team, so the rebuild will be fast, as he doesn’t like losing at football.<strong> He is in charge, alongside general manager John Spytek, of looking for a new head coach</strong> to take the reigns of the team and likely coach Mendoza for the next few years. In fact, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/indiana-qb-fernando-mendoza-hints-at-preferred-nfl-team-after-declaring-for-the-2026-draft" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mendoza also hinted at his desired destination in the NFL</a>.</p>


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<h2>The Raiders play in the toughest division in football</h2>



<p>While some might say the NFC North is a tough division, and it is, the AFC West is just a plain war. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a> are rebounding after missing the playoffs this year but <strong>with Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes, they are perennial contenders</strong>.</p>



<p>The Broncos are playing the AFC Championship this season and there is no reason to believe that they’ll fall down all of a sudden. The other team is the Chargers, who have a top-5 QB in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/justin-herbert" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Justin Herbert</a>, a top-tier HC in Jim Harbaugh, a solid roster and looking to get over the hump in the playoffs. Hence, <strong>the Raiders need to make good decisions and do them fast. </strong></p>

Fernando Mendoza makes something clear about his NFL future after leading Indiana to the National Championship

Fernando Mendoza makes something clear about his NFL future after leading Indiana to the National Championship - Bolavip US

<p>On the morning after the school’s first-ever <strong>College Football Playoff National Championship</strong> crowning, the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers</strong> learned that <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Fernando Mendoza</a>’s</strong> successor had entered the <strong>NCAA </strong>transfer portal, with one clear favorite emerging to sign him. In the blink of an eye, <strong>Curt Cignetti</strong> and company discovered there might not be a competition for the starting quarterback job next spring.</p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/who-is-fernando-mendozas-backup-qb-on-the-indiana-hoosiers-depth-chart-for-the-2026-cfp-national-championship">Indiana’s backup quarterback behind Fernando Mendoza</a>—his brother <strong>Alberto Mendoza</strong>—has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal ahead of the 2026 college football season, as reported by Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer.</p>



<p>After being <strong>limited throughout his two years in Bloomington</strong>, the three-star recruit is now off to his next destination in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a>. During his time with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana</a> Hoosiers, the Heisman trophy winner’s brother only made appearances in garbage time as Indiana blew its competition out of the water.</p>



<h2>Where will Mendoza play in 2026?</h2>



<p>According to <em>On3</em>, Alberto Mendoza is headed out of the Big Ten Conference. Instead, the former James Madison commit who followed Curt Cignetti to Indiana is <strong>reportedly signing with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets</strong> as a transfer. Georgia Tech is coming off a promising year with Haynes King under center. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/19205902/fernando-mendoza-1-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Fernando Mendoza" class="wp-image-565469"></figure><figcaption>Fernando Mendoza at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



<p>However, King is headed to the NFL Draft, leaving the starting job race wide open in Atlanta. Mendoza will vie to earn the QB1 role, as the Yellow Jackets boast an exciting offense—one that has become even more appealing after Alabama and Michigan RB transfer <strong>Justice Haynes joined their backfield</strong>.</p>



<h2>Who will Indiana start at QB in 2026?</h2>



<p>With the Mendoza brothers headed for the exit door—Fernando trending to be the No. 1 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft and Alberto looking for an opportunity to be a starter in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a>—Cignetti and Indiana will stare at a depleted quarterback room in Bloomington. However, all hope is not lost. Instead, the Hoosiers believe they have found their next great quarterback in the portal.</p>



<p><strong>The Indiana Hoosiers have signed TCU transfer Josh Hoover</strong>, who was expected to be the starting quarterback in 2026 even if Alberto Mendoza stayed with the program. With the younger sibling of the Heisman winner out of the picture, all signs indicate the redshirt senior out of Rockwall, Texas will run away with the first-string job.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="696f97ce3a480cbb4861851d" data-title="Who will win the National Championship in 2026?" data-options="6"></div>

Curt Cignetti, Indiana lose Fernando Mendoza successor for 2026 after National Championship

Curt Cignetti, Indiana lose Fernando Mendoza successor for 2026 after National Championship - Bolavip US

<p>Overlooked and underrated for a very long time, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Fernando Mendoza</a></strong> has now silenced all the critics. After a sensational year, Mendoza has helped the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers</strong> hoist their first <strong>College Football Playoff National Championship</strong> in school history. After the game, the star quarterback delivered a clear message for the <strong>Miami Hurricanes</strong>, the team he grew up rooting for.</p>



<p>Mendoza and the Hoosiers faced their biggest competition of the year against the Hurricanes in the National Championship Game. Nobody said it would be easy, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana</a> wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. At the end of the day, the Hoosiers are the best program in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a></strong>, and Mendoza could only reminisce about the journey he went through to get here.</p>



<p><em>“<strong>Shoutout to Miami defense</strong>. It was going to be a physical game, we had to play physical, and we did. We elevated it. This victory is so sweet for everybody, for the entire Hoosiers nation, but <strong>it’s also super sweet for myself,</strong>” </em>Mendoza said after the game.<em> “I was a two-star coming out of high school,<strong> I got declined a walk-on offer to the University of Miami</strong>. Full circle moment here, playing in Miami.”</em></p>



<h2>Mendoza’s stats </h2>



<p>In the biggest game of the year, Mendoza didn’t put up the outstanding numbers he had previously yielded in the Rose Bowl and Peach Bowl against Alabama and Oregon, respectively. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/19205902/fernando-mendoza-1-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Fernando Mendoza" class="wp-image-565469"></figure><figcaption>Fernando Mendoza at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Still, Mendoza did everything Curt Cignetti and his team asked—and more. As the game to a close, Mendoza finished the night <strong>16/27 for 186 passing yards, and a rushing touchdown</strong> on a fourth-down play that proved the difference.</p>


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<p>As a result, Mendoza put the cherry on top on a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> season for the ages. The California transfer is now on track to join a select group of players to be <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/fernando-mendoza-leads-indiana-to-national-title-how-many-heisman-winners-and-cfp-champions-became-no-1-pick-in-nfl-draft">Heisman trophy winners, national champions, and become the No. 1 pick</a> in the NFL Draft.</p>



<h2>Perfect ending for Mendoza and Indiana</h2>



<p>They say reality often outperforms fiction, and Indiana is a testament to that. Who would’ve guessed the Cinderella story in Bloomington would lead to a national title in less than two years? An overlooked kid out of Miami, FL took the <strong>school that once registered the most losses in college football history</strong> and placed it at the top of the hill. </p>



<p>As if it wasn’t a perfect enough ending, Mendoza did it in front of his family and friends, alongside his younger brother, in the city that saw him grow—<strong>and against the school that once shut the door in his face</strong>. Now, Mendoza and the Hoosiers are hoisting the most coveted trophy in the Hurricanes’ backyard.</p>

Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza sends clear message to Miami after National Championship win - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Fernando Mendoza</a></strong> completed the gauntlet during the 2025 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a></strong> season. Following the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers</strong>’ crowning in the <strong>College Football Playoff National Championship</strong> and Mendoza’s Heisman trophy, the star quarterback is now one step away from joining an elite club in <strong>college football</strong>. All that is left is for him to be selected with the first overall pick in the <strong>2026 NFL Draft</strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Only a handful of players have ever completed this trifecta</strong>. After his sensational year with the Hoosiers, Mendoza is now well on track to etch his name onto the selected group. Following <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana</a>’s victory over the Miami Hurricanes in the National Championship, we take a look at the five players who have won the Heisman, a natty, and went on to be drafted with the No. 1 pick.</p>



<p>The list consists of the following <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a> stars: <strong>Angelo Bertelli (Notre Dame), Leon Hart (Notre Dame), Cam Newton (Auburn), Jameis Winston (Florida State), and Joe Burrow (LSU)</strong>. If Mendoza is indeed drafted with the first overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, the quarterback out of Miami, FL will be the latest talent to add his name onto the mix.</p>



<h2>Who owns the No. 1 pick in the Draft?</h2>



<p>After Mendoza and the Hoosiers finished the job with their dominant victory over the Hurricanes, the <strong>ball is now in the Las Vegas Raiders’ court</strong>. The organization in Sin City finished the 2025 NFL season with the league’s worst record (3–14) and was awarded the first overall pick in the upcoming draft because of it. There are no doubts that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/are-fernando-mendoza-and-carson-beck-declaring-for-nfl-draft-after-2026-cfp-national-championship">Mendoza will be declaring for the NFL Draft</a>, as he has ran out of years of eligibility.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/13184756/fernando-mendoza-during-the-trophy-presentation-1920x1080.webp" alt="Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers" class="wp-image-544997"></figure><figcaption>Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Since then, the Raiders have been heavily linked to Mendoza. And for good reason. The selection makes too much sense, as <strong>Las Vegas has long been in need of a franchise quarterback</strong> after severely underwhelming stints with Jimmy Garoppolo, Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell, Geno Smith, and others attempted as the No. 1 quarterback. </p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-football/who-is-fernando-mendozas-backup-qb-on-the-indiana-hoosiers-depth-chart-for-the-2026-cfp-national-championship"></div>


<p>None worked out, and Mendoza presents a skill set the Raiders haven’t come across in a very long time. <strong>All signs indicate Mendoza will be selected first overall</strong> by the Raiders, but anything can happen. Once in a blue moon, the house sometimes loses—even in Las Vegas—and no one really knows for certain what the Raiders’ next move will be.</p>

Fernando Mendoza leads Indiana to national title: How many Heisman winners and CFP champions became No. 1 pick in NFL Draft? - Bolavip US

Mendoza leads Indiana to national title: How many Heisman winners and CFP champions became No. 1 pick in NFL Draft?

<p><strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong> didn’t just draw attention during the 2026 CFP game against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami">Miami</a> for his sharp throws and how challenging it was to operate against the Hurricanes’ defense. He also caught the eye of viewers<strong> because his palms appeared completely white</strong>, covered in what looked like a powdery substance.</p>



<p>In reality, Mendoza had what are known as<strong> “chalked hands,”</strong> something some quarterbacks use from time to time. The substance<strong> is typically rosin or liquid chalk</strong>, which helps improve grip on the football. Its use<strong> is not illegal</strong> in the CFP or under NCAA rules.</p>



<p>The substance Mendoza used during the CFP game against Miami <strong>costs between $9.99 and $30.99.</strong> It’s not only used by quarterbacks, but also by weightlifters to improve grip on the bar.</p>



<h2>Mendoza has not commented on his chalked hands</h2>



<p>So far, Mendoza has not addressed his use of liquid chalk during the 2025–26 season. It’s unclear whether<strong> it helped him post 41 regular-season touchdown passes</strong> and deliver his playoff and CFP performances, but it appears to work better than wearing gloves.</p>



<div class="ck-instagram"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTV6HUMkt61/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background:#FFF;border:0;border-radius:3px;margin: 1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:99.375%;width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);width:calc(100% - 2px)"><div style="padding:16px"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTV6HUMkt61/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="background:#FFFFFF;line-height:0;padding:0 0;text-align:center;text-decoration:none;width:100%" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <div style="flex-direction: row;align-items: center"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 40px;margin-right: 14px;width: 40px"></div> <div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 100px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 60px"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0"></div> <div style="height:50px;margin:0 auto 12px;width:50px"></div><div style="padding-top: 8px"> <div style="color:#3897f0;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:550;line-height:18px">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0"></div> <div style="flex-direction: row;margin-bottom: 14px;align-items: center"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px;flex-grow: 0;margin-right: 14px;margin-left: 2px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 20px;width: 20px"></div> <div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 2px solid transparent;border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4;border-bottom: 2px solid transparent"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto"> <div style="width: 0px;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-right: 8px solid transparent"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;flex-grow: 0;height: 12px;width: 16px"></div> <div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-left: 8px solid transparent"></div></div></div> <div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center;margin-bottom: 24px"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 224px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 144px"></div></div></a><p style="color:#c9c8cd;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:17px;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:8px;overflow:hidden;padding:8px 0 7px;text-align:center"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTV6HUMkt61/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color:#c9c8cd;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;line-height:17px;text-decoration:none" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Charlie Caruso (@charliecaruso8)</a></p></div></blockquote></div>



<p>Looking back at Mendoza’s time at California (2023–2024), there is no information indicating that he used liquid chalk or any other substance. During those two seasons, <strong>he threw for more than 4,100 passing yards with 30 total touchdowns</strong>, making the jump in production in 2025 a significant one.</p>



<p>The NCAA is clear that adhesive substances are prohibited. <strong>Liquid chalk is not specifically mentioned in the rules</strong>, but if a referee discovers a quarterback or any other player using a sticky substance, it must result in an immediate unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.</p>

What is the white substance on Fernando Mendoza’s hands during the 2026 CFP?

What is the white substance on Fernando Mendoza’s hands during the 2026 CFP? - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Fernando Mendoza</a></strong> and the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers</strong> have put on a season for the ages in the <strong>NCAA</strong>. However, everything Curt Cignetti and company have ever cared for is still one win away. As Indiana takes on the <strong>Miami Hurricanes</strong> in the <strong>College Football Playoff National Championship</strong>, on <em>Bolavip</em> we take a look at the Hoosiers’ depth at the quarterback position.</p>



<p>Backup quarterbacks in <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a></strong> must always be alert and with their head in the game. At any given moment, their number may be called up. When it comes to Indiana, their QB situation may be unlike any other in the NCAA.</p>



<p>The Hoosiers know their best chance at hoisting their first national championship lies in the hands of the <strong>Heisman winner</strong>, Fernando Mendoza. However, Cignetti may be just as confident in his program’s backup as he <strong>has been cut from the same cloth as Fernando. </strong></p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana</a>’s second-string quarterback is none other than <strong>Alberto Mendoza</strong>, Fernando’s younger brother. The third stringer is Old Dominion senior transfer Grant Wilson.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/19160704/albertp-mendoza-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-565317"></figure><figcaption> Alberto Mendoza is the backup QB for Indiana</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Alberto Mendoza’s journey</h2>



<p>Although it took a while for Fernando to make his way to the school in Bloomington, Alberto jumped directly from Christopher Columbus High School (Miami, FL) to Indiana University. </p>


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<p>Alberto was ranked a three-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class and is now classified as a redshirt freshman. So far in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> campaign, Mendoza has made several appearances late in games <strong>thanks to his brother and teammates blowing out almost every opponent</strong> in college football. </p>



<p>The youngest Mendoza at Indiana has <strong>completed 18 passes for 256 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception.</strong> In that regard, Alberto Mendoza has a bit more of experience than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/who-is-carson-becks-backup-qb-on-the-miami-hurricanes-depth-chart-for-the-2026-cfp-national-championship">Miami’s backup quarterback behind Carson Beck</a>, Emory Williams, who has rarely seen the field this year.</p>



<p>However, Alberto Mendoza has never seen the field in a game in which the opponent scored more than 10 points. Barring a crisis at the quarterback position, Alberto Mendoza won’t be thrown into the fire at Hard Rock Stadium.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/19143713/national-championship-trophy-1920x1080.webp" alt="National Championship Trophy" class="wp-image-565234"></figure><figcaption>The College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The Mendoza brothers return to The Magic City</h2>



<p>Fernando and Alberto Mendoza don’t care <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football/how-many-fans-are-attending-the-2026-college-football-playoff-national-championship-at-hard-rock-stadium">how many fans will be attending the National Championship Game at Hard Rock Stadium</a>—they know they have something to prove to their hometown. </p>



<p><strong>Back in the 305 to take on the Hurricanes in Miami Gardens</strong>, with the most coveted silverware in college football on the line, represents everything the two brothers have ever dreamed of. Needless to say, it’s set to be a memory the Mendoza brothers—and their family—will never forget.</p>



<p>Now, it’s about proving that <strong>one can indeed be a prophet in their own land</strong> — though in a different way — and that Miami made a costly mistake by not offering scholarships to the Mendoza household. </p>

Who is Fernando Mendoza’s backup QB on the Indiana Hoosiers depth chart for the 2026 CFP National Championship?

Who is Fernando Mendoza's backup QB on the Indiana Hoosiers depth chart for the 2026 CFP National Championship? - Bolavip US

Who is Mendoza's backup QB on Indiana depth chart for the 2026 CFP National Championship?

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football">college football</a></strong> season is coming to an end and will have its final chapter at Hard Rock Stadium, where the <strong>Indiana Hoosiers</strong> will face the <strong>Miami Hurricanes</strong> in the <strong>National Championship Game</strong>. This stage will bring <strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong> and <strong>Carson Beck</strong> face to face, undoubtedly two standouts at their position this season.</p>



<p>Both quarterbacks may have been the primary reasons their teams reached this stage, leading <strong>many to begin wondering whether the future of both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fernando-mendoza">Mendoza</a> and Beck could lie in the NFL</strong> once this season comes to an end.</p>



<p>While there has been no official confirmation regarding this situation—understanding that the focus is squarely on what may happen in today’s final—<strong>it is expected that both Fernando Mendoza and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carson-beck">Carson Beck</a> will declare themselves eligible for the upcoming NFL Draft.</strong></p>



<p>There is plenty of talk surrounding projections, and the <strong>Hoosiers’ leader and reigning Heisman Trophy winner is expected to be a high draft pick</strong>, even with the chance of being selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 overall pick. Beck’s fate, for now, remains to be seen.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/19134436/fernando-mendoza-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Fernando Mendoza" class="wp-image-565217"></figure><figcaption>Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The Heisman Trophy is well deserved</h2>



<p>Fernando Mendoza solidified his place in college football history by <strong>becoming the first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana Hoosier</a> to win the Heisman Trophy</strong>, delivering a season for the ages in 2025. </p>


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<p>Leading Indiana to a perfect 15-0 record and a No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, <strong>Mendoza showcased elite precision and playmaking ability</strong>. He finished the campaign with 3,349 passing yards, an incredible 41 touchdowns against only 6 interceptions, and a dominant 90.2 Total QBR.</p>



<h2>Beck emerging as a big name</h2>



<p>Carson Beck has once again placed himself firmly in the first-round conversation for the 2026 NFL Draft after a resurgent senior season at Miami. Commanding the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-hurricanes">Hurricanes</a>‘ offense with veteran poise, Beck displayed the elite accuracy and processing power that scouts have long admired. </p>



<p>He capped off the campaign wit<strong>h 3,581 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, all while maintaining an efficient 81.4 Total QBR</strong>. Having led Miami to the national title game, his ability to perform on the biggest stages has solidified his status as one of the premier pocket passers in this class.</p>

Are Fernando Mendoza and Carson Beck declaring for NFL Draft after 2026 CFP National Championship?

Are Fernando Mendoza and Carson Beck declaring for NFL Draft after 2026 CFP National Championship? - Bolavip US

<p><strong>Fernando Mendoza </strong>is the winner of the <strong>2025 Heisman Trophy</strong> following a standout season in which he threw for<strong> 33 touchdowns and 2,980 yards</strong> to help <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana">Indiana</a> establish a <strong>13-0 record. </strong>The season was undoubtedly a showcase of his talent as a quarterback and the significant potential he has to offer.</p>



<p>Now, as a Heisman winner, Fernando Mendoza <strong>will have an extra boost heading into the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a></strong>, where he is sure to be a highly contested pick by teams in need of a top quarterback with innate talent and the potential to be a franchise centerpiece.</p>



<p>For Indiana, Fernando Mendoza winning the Heisman is a tremendously important achievement<strong>, as it is the first time in program history that one of their players has won the trophy. </strong>Furthermore, thanks to him, the team won a conference title this season, something that had not happened since 1945.</p>



<h2>Mendoza’s Heisman acceptance speech</h2>



<p>Among the things Mendoza said after winning the Heisman, he spoke about how sometimes <strong>you don’t need the highest-ranked players</strong> or rankings to go far with a team; the <strong>important factors</strong> are focus and believing that the talent you possess is enough to succeed.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Fernando Mendoza🔥Indiana QB 2025 Heisman Highlights" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9a9ogvcDH9U?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<p><em>“The truth is, you don’t need the most stars, hype, or rankings. You just need <strong>discipline, heart, and people who believe</strong>, and you need to believe in your own abilities. I hope this moment shows you that chasing your dreams is worth it.”</em></p>



<p>He also dedicated some words to his former team: “<em>To my Cal family, thank you for being the first to believe in my future.<strong> Thank you for the opportunity, educating me and giving me the foundation</strong> that enabled me to grow into the person I am today.”</em></p>



<p>And of course, he didn’t forget his mother: <em>“Mom<strong>, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. </strong>You’ve always been my biggest fan …<strong> Your sacrifices, courage, love</strong>…,” Mendoza said. “Those have been my first playbook and the playbook that I’m gonna carry by my side, through my entire life…”</em></p>

Fernando Mendoza named the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, capping a dominant year

Fernando Mendoza named the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, capping a dominant year - Bolavip US

<p>In <strong>college football</strong>, the game isn’t over until the whistle blows and zeros are on the clock. <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indiana Hoosiers</a></strong> quarterback <strong>Fernando Mendoza</strong> made sure of that—and then some—during his program’s road win over the <strong>Iowa Hawkeyes</strong>.</p>



<p>Week 5 of the 2025 <strong>NCAA</strong> season had no shortage of drama. Across the country, Saturday was packed with tension and high-voltage action. That was also true for the matchup between Indiana and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/iowa-hawkeyes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iowa</a>, which <strong>ended in a 20-15 victory for the visiting Hoosiers in Iowa City.</strong></p>



<p>However, the game could’ve ended in a 20–13 triumph had it not been for a controversial play by Mendoza to close things out. With only three seconds left on fourth down, Mendoza was snapped the football before <strong>running all the way back to his own end zone. </strong></p>



<p>Taking the safety assured Iowa two points, but not the football back. The clock, however, had already hit zero well before Mendoza reached the end zone. As a result, many fans across the nation erupted in outcry as their <strong>bets were lost on a seemingly meaningless play</strong>. Now, Indiana’s signal-caller has spoken on the “money-costing” fiasco.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">ONE OF THE WORST BEATS YOU WILL EVER SEE<br><br>The 2H spread was Indiana -5.5. It was tied at 10 at halftime. <br><br>Fernando Mendoza runs back 40 yards to take a safety to end the game and Indiana wins by 5 🤮 🤮 🤮<a href="https://t.co/e38kMMuGRQ">pic.twitter.com/e38kMMuGRQ</a></p>— Pikkit (@pikkitsports) <a href="https://twitter.com/pikkitsports/status/1972076669319184578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



<p><em>“<strong>I didn’t want to ever put our team in jeopardy</strong>,” </em>Fernando Mendoza said after the game, per<em> On3. “Maybe if I slide with one second left, there might be some quirk where we might have to punt it. I just wanted to get out of the safety, and I know I shouldn’t be saying this, <strong>I probably cooked people’s spreads and I really apologize for that.</strong> However, in that moment, my goal was to win the game.”</em></p>


        

        

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<h2>Betting on themselves</h2>



<p>As much or as little as Mendoza’s apologies do to the fans upset across the country, fans in Bloomington couldn’t care any less about it. Neither do the Hoosiers, who <strong>remain undefeated at 5-0 in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAA</a> and 2-0 in the Big Ten</strong>. If anything, Indiana is happy to cash in on the wager they care: winning football games. The Hoosiers are putting all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-football" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college football</a> on notice. </p>



<p><em>“They aren’t happy,” </em>Mendoza added<em>. “But I definitely put my apologies out to them. For us, we are <strong>looking out for the Indiana moneyline, which is a win</strong>.”</em></p>


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<p>This win on the road over Iowa is a big step in the right direction and morale-boosting for a team that will need to be firing in all cylinders in their upcoming matchup. On October 11, the Hoosiers will make a trip to the Northwest, <strong>where the Oregon Ducks await in Eugene</strong> for one of the biggest matchups of college football’s Week 7.</p>

Indiana star Fernando Mendoza sets the record straight on controversial final play in win vs Iowa

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Indiana star Fernando Mendoza sets the record straight on controversial final play in win vs Iowa - Bolavip US

Indiana's Mendoza sets the record straight on controversial final play in win vs Iowa

Latest news from Fernando Mendoza. Find out about all the news related to Fernando Mendoza on bolavip.com/en