Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza Announces Career News Before Alabama Game
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Fernando Mendoza and the No. 1 seed Indiana Hoosiers take on the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. It’s their first College Football Playoff game after having a first-round bye.
Led by Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy Winner, the Hoosiers have one of college football‘s most explosive offenses. They rank fourth in points per game (41.9) and eighth in total yards per game (472.8).
Through 13 games this season, the redshirt junior has completed 226-of-316 passes for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 181.4 passer rating. He also has 69 carries for 240 yards and six touchdowns.
After winning one of college football’s most prestigious awards and striving for a national championship, he continues to earn exciting off-field opportunities. On Friday, Mendoza announced a new Name, Image and Likeness partnership with Royal Canin. It’s a company that specializes in tailored nutrition products for cats and dogs.
“#RoyalCaninPartner#Ad Spent some quality time with the family over the holidays, and of course that included Scout,” he wrote in an Instagram post. “And, we’re excited to team up with @royalcaninus to celebrate how dogs are the MVPs of our lives in honor of the @americankennelclub National Championship presented by Royal Canin. Tune in Sunday, Dec. 28 from 12 – 3 p.m. ET on @abc to find out who will win Best in Show!”
Royal Canin joins a growing list of companies to partner with Mendoza, including Keurig, Axia Time, Dr Pepper, Adidas and Epic Games. His On3 NIL valuation of an estimated $2.6 million is tied for the fifth-highest in college football.
This is likely his last season playing college football, with ESPN’s Mel Kiper listing him as the No. 2 prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. That means time is running out to cash in on more NIL opportunities before taking the next step in his career.
With this latest deal announced, Mendoza and Indiana prepare to face a tough Alabama defense. The Crimson Tide rank 13th in the nation in points allowed per game (17.9).
Kickoff is Thursday at 4 p.m. ET at the Rose Bowl, airing on ESPN. ESPN’s matchup predictor gives the Hoosiers a 71.4% chance of winning.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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