Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza wins Manning Award After Historic Season

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Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza wins Manning Award After Historic Season

It was a historic season for Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza. In 16 games, he completed 273 of 379 passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 182.9 passer rating. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven touchdowns on 90 carries.

He was a major contributor to Indiana’s historic success. Mendoza led the Hoosiers to their first Big Ten title since 1967, and the first national championship in program history.

With the junior under center, Indiana ranked third in points per game (41.6) and 17th in total yards per game (452). Despite his time in Bloomington coming to an end after declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza continues to earn national recognition.

Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15).Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

On Friday, Indiana announced the Heisman Trophy winner and consensus All-American earned another honor for his collection, winning the Manning Award.

“Your Manning Award winner,” the team wrote via an X post.

The award is named after former college football quarterbacks Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. Both Archie and Peyton are members of the College Football Hall of Fame. The award is handed out yearly to the nation’s most outstanding quarterback. It also takes into account bowl game and playoff performances.

Mendoza was one of 15 finalists for the award. The only others in the Big Ten were Ohio State Buckeyes QB Julian Sayin and Oregon Ducks QB Dante Moore. Mendoza is the first Indiana quarterback and first Big Ten quarterback to win the award. Oregon’s Marcus Mariota and the USC Trojans‘ Matt Leinart received the honor before their schools joined the Big Ten.

Up next for Mendoza is preparing for the NFL draft. However, he’s not expected to be around very long when the draft begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh. ESPN’s Mel Kiper lists him as the top player available

Related: Greg McElroy Names One SEC Team With ‘Roster of a National Champion’

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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