As Indiana gears up for its first-ever appearance in the National Championship game, the Hoosiers aren't just riding a wave of momentum-they're powered by a core of standout players who’ve earned national recognition. ESPN’s recently released All-America teams feature four Indiana stars, a testament to the program’s breakout season and a reflection of just how much talent is driving this historic run.
**Leading the charge? None other than Fernando Mendoza.
** The quarterback has been the face of Indiana’s rise, and now he’s a first-team All-American on top of everything else. Mendoza’s trophy case is already bursting-Heisman winner, Walter Camp National Player of the Year, Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, and more.
But this All-America nod is another stamp of approval on what’s been a season for the ages.
Mendoza, who transferred in from Cal, didn’t just elevate Indiana-he transformed it. His numbers are eye-popping: 3,349 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, just six interceptions.
And those stats don’t even tell the whole story. Indiana didn’t have to lean on the pass every game, but when it mattered most-like in the College Football Playoff-Mendoza delivered in a big way.
Against Alabama and Oregon, he was nearly flawless, completing 31 of 36 passes for 369 yards and eight touchdowns. That’s not just efficient; that’s surgical.
He had more touchdowns than incompletions in those two games combined. That’s the kind of quarterback play that wins championships.
**Protecting Mendoza all season long was another first-team All-American: offensive tackle Carter Smith. ** Smith didn’t just anchor Indiana’s line-he dominated.
The Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year allowed zero sacks and just five pressures across the regular season. That kind of protection is rare, and it’s a big reason Mendoza had the time and space to operate at such a high level.
Smith’s physical tools stand out-6'5", 313 pounds with the strength and footwork to match. But what makes him special is the consistency and intelligence he brings to the position.
He’s been the foundation of an offensive line that’s been one of the most reliable units in the country. Without him, Indiana’s offense doesn’t hum the way it has all year.
On the other side of the ball, linebacker Aiden Fisher earned his spot on the first team with a season that’s been as versatile as it’s been productive. The James Madison transfer has become Indiana’s defensive heartbeat, doing a little bit of everything and doing it well. Through 15 games, Fisher racked up 93 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions-career highs across the board.
But it’s not just about the stats. Fisher’s impact goes beyond the box score.
He’s been the glue of a defense that’s stepped up in big moments, especially in the postseason. Against Alabama and Oregon, Fisher led all Indiana defenders with 16 tackles.
His ability to read plays, cover ground, and make open-field stops has been crucial to Indiana’s playoff push.
Rounding out Indiana’s All-American quartet is center Pat Coogan, who earned second-team honors. Coogan’s recognition adds another layer to the Hoosiers’ offensive dominance. He’s been a steady presence in the trenches, helping to control the line of scrimmage and keep the offense on schedule.
With four total All-Americans, Indiana trails only Ohio State in ESPN’s selections. Notably, their upcoming National Championship opponent, Miami, had three players make the cut-highlighted by first-team defensive end Reuben Bain Jr. and two second-teamers in offensive tackle Francis Mauioga and cornerback Keionte Scott.
**Now, it all comes down to Monday night. ** No.
1 Indiana faces No. 10 Miami at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with kickoff set for 7:50 p.m.
ET on ESPN. It’s a matchup loaded with talent, but Indiana comes in with momentum, star power, and a belief that this season-led by Mendoza, Smith, Fisher, and Coogan-has the makings of something unforgettable.
The Hoosiers aren’t just playing for a title. They’re playing to make history.