Indiana QB Mendoza Shines on Pat McAfee Show, Heisman Buzz Builds

On November 18, 2025, Indiana football quarterback Fernando Mendoza made an appearance on the popular Pat McAfee Show. Mendoza's coach, Curt Cignetti, has been a frequent guest on the show, with the host championing the quarterback's success.

During the interview, Mendoza reflected on Cignetti's recruiting pitch, which convinced him to join the Hoosiers over other "blue blood" programs. Mendoza praised Cignetti's promise to help him become the "best Fernando Mendoza" he could be, as well as the opportunity to play alongside his younger brother, Alberto.

Mendoza also discussed several key moments from Indiana's season, including wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr.'s game-winning catch against Penn State. The quarterback described the play as the "catch of the year," praising Cooper's athleticism and resilience in the face of a raucous Beaver Stadium crowd.

Additionally, Mendoza highlighted the depth and talent of Indiana's receiving corps, which includes standouts like Elijah "Waffle House" Sarratt and E.J. Williams. The quarterback praised the team's "next man up" mentality and the support they provide each other.

Mendoza also touched on his NFL idols, including Tom Brady, and his admiration for fellow Indiana quarterback Daniel Jones. The Hoosier signal-caller even revealed that he tried to emulate Jones' "bloody mouth" look during a game, though he was not as successful.

Finally, Mendoza spoke about the personal motivation behind his football career, citing his mother's fight with multiple sclerosis as his driving force. The quarterback expressed his desire to use his platform to raise awareness and support for the MS Society, a cause that is deeply personal to him.