All Eyes on Fernando Mendoza as Raiders Brass Watches Closely from the Sidelines
The spotlight doesn’t get much brighter than this: a national championship game under the lights in Miami Gardens, a Heisman Trophy winner under center, and two NFL power players watching from just a few feet away. As Indiana takes a 10-0 lead into halftime over Miami, quarterback Fernando Mendoza is doing more than leading his team-he’s potentially auditioning for the No. 1 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft.
And the audience? Let’s just say it’s not your average Monday night crowd.
Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis and former Super Bowl champion Tom Brady-now a minority owner in the Raiders organization-were both spotted on the sidelines, keeping a close eye on the man many believe could be the next face of their franchise. Their presence wasn’t just ceremonial. It was strategic.
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, neither Davis nor Brady was expected to attend the game, but their surprise appearance speaks volumes. Thamel reported the two were seen standing near each other before kickoff, and he didn’t mince words: “They are soon to be the boss of Fernando Mendoza.”
That’s not just speculation-it’s a signal. The Raiders hold the top pick in the upcoming draft, and all signs point to Mendoza being at the center of their plans.
Of course, nothing’s set in stone. But when the team’s top decision-makers show up unannounced to watch one player, it’s hard not to connect the dots.
At halftime, Mendoza’s stat line is solid-11-of-15 for 104 yards. No touchdowns yet, but he’s been efficient, poised, and in control, which is exactly what he’s shown throughout the College Football Playoff. Indiana’s road to the title game included dominant wins over Alabama and Oregon, and Mendoza’s steady hand was a big reason why.
What makes this moment even more compelling is the timing. With the draft still months away, this game serves as Mendoza’s final on-field showcase before the pre-draft process begins. And with the Raiders potentially in the market for a franchise quarterback, this performance could be the final piece of validation they need.
There’s still a half of football left to play, and a national title to be decided. But for Mendoza, this isn’t just about hoisting a trophy-it’s about seizing a future. And if he continues to deliver under pressure, he may have already won over the most important audience in the building.
The Raiders are watching. Closely.