The Hoosiers had a very balanced team with excellent players on both sides of the ball, but it sure helped having the Heisman Trophy winner at quarterback in Fernando Mendoza, who's now expected to be the No.

Texas QB Arch Manning returns as a strong betting favorite for the 2026 Heisman as one of college football’s biggest brands chases CFP redemption.

The college football season is behind us, but many fans of the sport are already thinking ahead to the 2026 campaign and which players will work their way into the 2026 Heisman Trophy picture. While many of the traditional

John Mateer also could have put his toes in the draft waters. LaNorris Sellers (+3000) and Gunner Stockton had a chance to bet on themselves in a weak quarterback class. Each of them will instead return as experienced dual-threat players who could rank among the sport's statistical leaders.

One of the biggest reasons that Indiana football turned into a national powerhouse this season was the ascent of Fernando Mendoza, but it wasn't a given that he was going to be a superstar upon transferring to the program last offseason.

IU QB Fernando Mendoza to sign autographs at DICK'S Sporting Goods; fans can view championship trophy locally.