As we approach Hodge Trophy season, Penn State wrestling is in the spotlight, though the prestigious award has been elusive for them in recent years. Known as wrestling's equivalent to the Heisman, the Hodge Trophy has seen only Aaron Brooks from Penn State claim it in 2024 over the past five years. However, this year might break the trend, with several Penn State wrestlers emerging as strong contenders.
Understanding the criteria for the Hodge is crucial. First and foremost is the record-an undefeated season is almost a prerequisite, with Iowa’s Brent Metcalf in 2008 being a rare exception.
Next is the dominance of victories, where none of Penn State's top wrestlers, despite being undefeated, have a bonus rate exceeding 78%. Quality of competition, sportsmanship, and past credentials also play significant roles.
Currently, three wrestlers stand out as favorites for this top honor, two of whom hail from Penn State.
Mitchell Mesenbrink
Mesenbrink is a fan favorite at Penn State, alongside Ohio State’s Jesse Mendez. Both have achieved nearly everything in college wrestling except winning the Hodge.
Mesenbrink clinched his first national championship last year at 165 pounds and has started this season with a perfect 22-0 record, all bonus point victories. His transformation is evident, with eight pins this season compared to none last year.
He boasts four wins against top-10 opponents, including two against Iowa’s No. 2 ranked Mikey Caliendo.
Jesse Mendez
A familiar name to Penn State fans, Mendez has been a force at 141 pounds, maintaining a 22-0 record with an impressive 86.36% bonus rate. Only two opponents have managed to limit him to a decision: Iowa State’s Anthony Echemendia and Nebraska’s Brock Hardy, ranked No. 3 and No. 4 respectively. Mendez has faced 10 ranked opponents, with eight in the top 10 and four in the top five, and has secured six pins this season.
Josh Barr
Barr is considered a long shot among the trio. He has won all 19 of his matches by bonus points, including 10 by tech fall, and has 11 victories against ranked competitors.
However, Barr has wrestled three fewer matches than Mesenbrink and Mendez, partly due to a rib injury from the U23 World Championships in October. Additionally, the depth at 197 pounds in the Big Ten isn’t as competitive, with Nebraska’s Camden McDanel, ranked No. 10, being the highest-ranked opponent aside from Barr himself.
Barr's lack of a pre-2026 resume comparable to Mesenbrink or Mendez might also impact his chances.
As the Hodge Trophy decision looms, Penn State's hopefuls are making a compelling case. Whether Mesenbrink, Mendez, or Barr, each wrestler brings a unique story and set of accomplishments to the mat, making this year's race one to watch closely.