Indiana reloaded—and their new QB is already in the national conversation

The Indiana Hoosiers and coach Curt Cignetti are coming off the best regular season in program history—one that ended with the school’s first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. Rather than resting on their success, the Hoosiers doubled down in the offseason by aggressively attacking the transfer portal.

Their biggest move came at quarterback, where they landed Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza to replace Kurtis Rourke. 

On paper, it’s arguably an upgrade. Mendoza not only brings experience and production but has already started gaining national attention ahead of his first season in Bloomington.

This week, Mendoza was named to the 2025 Davey O’Brien Award Preseason Watch List. 

The award is presented annually to the nation’s best college quarterback and is the oldest and most prestigious honor at the position. Only 35 quarterbacks made the list, making Mendoza’s inclusion a significant sign of how he’s viewed at the national level.

Mendoza, now a junior, is expected to spend the next two seasons leading the Indiana offense. 

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He’s coming off a breakout campaign at Cal, where he threw for 3,004 yards and 16 touchdowns with just six interceptions. He completed 68% of his passes and recorded three games with over 300 passing yards.

Indiana’s offensive staff believes Mendoza’s efficiency and poise under pressure will translate immediately to the Big Ten. With a returning core of offensive playmakers and Cignetti’s proven track record, the Hoosiers aren’t just looking to return to the playoff—they’re aiming to win.

And if Mendoza plays to his potential, Indiana’s ceiling gets even higher.